| This week, four of our very own members from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region joined more than 500 youth and Youth Development Professionals from across the country in Washington, D.C. for SAY 2025—Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s signature Summit for America’s Youth. This national advocacy conference is designed to empower Club members with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to become effective leaders and advocates—both within their local communities and on a national level. The experience offers youth the chance to learn directly from professionals, alumni, and their peers through dynamic keynotes, hands-on workshops, and real-world leadership opportunities. |
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| Representing our Clubs with pride and purpose were Nyree, Maryam, Isaiah and Demone. Over the course of four days, they joined their peers in meaningful learning experiences that included: Creating and presenting a youth-led advocacy project at the TLC (Think, Learn, Create, Change) Advocacy Project Fair Attending panels focused on leadership, public service, workforce readiness, and community impact Participating in small-group trainings on advocacy and communication Visiting Capitol Hill and meeting with congressional representatives to share their stories and priorities Exploring career and college pathways through networking sessions and a career fair Connecting with Boys & Girls Club youth from across the country to build new friendships and future collaborations |
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| While the days were full and the sessions fast-paced, our youth showed up, leaned in, and grew in powerful ways. They learned how to stand up and speak out—not only for themselves, but for their fellow Club members and the issues that matter most to them. They also returned home with a deeper understanding of how their voices can shape the future of their communities. |
| SAY 2025 reminded us that when youth are given the platform and support they deserve, they will rise to the occasion. Our Club members left this conference transformed—more confident, more informed, and more determined than ever to lead with purpose. As one of our Club members, Maryam, stated after returning: “I never thought I’d be able to go to D.C. and share my story. Now I know that my story and my voice can make real change.” We are proud to invest in opportunities like SAY 2025, where our youth don’t just attend—they lead, advocate, and inspire. |