Second Annual Changemaker Teen Summit & Civic Symposium

The Westchester Youth Alliance, in partnership with YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester, Family Services of Westchester Youth Council, and Senator Shelley Mayer’s Youth Advisory Council, and supported by the New York Community Trust, is proud to jointly announce the Second Annual Westchester Changemaker Teen Summit & Civic Symposium, taking place on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the White Plains Public Library. The morning program is open to teen participants, with the community welcome to join beginning at 12:30 PM for a free and open afternoon of youth-led civic action. County Executive Ken Jenkins and Senator Shelley Mayer will be our esteemed keynote speakers for the event.

The summit serves as the culminating event of a six-workshop Teen Changemaker Civic Engagement Symposium series, which launched in January. During the series, 50 teens in grades 8–12 from schools across Westchester County developed community action projects addressing pressing local issues, such as mental health, educational equity, climate, housing, and more.

The morning program — featuring skill-building breakout sessions and youth speakers — is designed for teen participants. Beginning at 12:30 PM, the event opens to the full community for the Open Symposium, where more than 15 teen-led projects will be on display for parents, educators, community partners, local officials, and neighbors to view. The afternoon concludes with a closing awards ceremony and celebration. Three community leaders, including State Senator Shelley Mayer, Westchester Children Association’s Angel Grey, and Former Bedford Councilman and Social Impact Consultant Andres Castillo will act as judges and together will choose one project as a winner. The winning group will receive $500 in funding towards the implementation of their community project.

Event Schedule:

10:00 – 10:30 AM: Welcome and Youth Speeches

10:35 – 11:10 AM: Teen Breakout Session 1

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Teen Breakout Session 2

12:00 – 12:30 PM: Lunch

12:30 – 1:15 PM: Keynote Speakers

1:15 – 2:30 PM: Open Symposium — Teen Community Project Showcase

2:30 – 3:00 PM: Awards, Photos & Closing Celebration

About the Organizing Partners

Westchester Youth Alliance (WYA) brings together diverse high school students throughout Westchester County, New York to build bridges across differences of faith, race, and identity. Through community service, dialogue, the arts, and civic engagement, WYA fosters connection, belonging, and purpose. The organization provides free, inclusive youth development programming where teens from different backgrounds can learn with and from one another in safe, supportive environments. By addressing social isolation, stress, and anxiety, WYA strengthens students’ social-emotional wellbeing and resilience. Programs expand access to mentorship, enrichment, and positive peer networks. WYA equips young people with the skills and confidence to lead in their communities and shape a more just and inclusive future.

The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester nurtures children and teens ages 6 weeks to 19 years, supporting their growth in mind, body, and spirit. Through programs and caring relationships, the Y helps young people build confidence, character, and leadership while strengthening community across Westchester & Putnam Counties.

Family Services of Westchester provides a comprehensive network of mental health, social, and educational services to individuals and families throughout Westchester County.

Senator Shelley Mayer’s Youth Advisory Council brings together high school students from across the 37th Senate District to engage in the civic and legislative process, empowering them to develop and present their own legislative proposals on issues impacting their communities.

This program was made possible by the New York Community Trust, which exists as New York’s community foundation to foster and engage in enduring and innovative philanthropy.