914Cares successfully hosted its first-ever Youth Symposium: The Power of Youth in Service, welcoming 54 students from 13 Westchester County high schools and community leaders to its headquarters at 28 Kaysal Court in Armonk, New York. The recent event served as a bridge between today’s changemakers and the philanthropic leaders of tomorrow, focusing on the vital roles of collaboration, advocacy and social impact.
The symposium provided a unique, multidimensional look at the nonprofit sector, combining high-level panel discussions with a tangible volunteer activity. Students engaged directly with professionals from health care, government and corporate social responsibility.
The event went beyond dialogue, as students participated in a hands-on volunteer activity between sessions. Students packed 240 Flow Kits and 450 Hygiene Kits, all basic essentials that 914Cares distributes to local children and families through its 200+ community partners.
“Today was about showing young people that their passion for helping others has a professional home,” said Lisa Horten, 914Cares CEO. “Seeing these students engage with our leaders and roll up their sleeves to do the work proves that the future of Westchester is in very capable hands.”
By fostering these connections, 914Cares aims to cultivate a permanent pipeline of young leaders committed to equity and community health. The success of this inaugural symposium sets the stage for future initiatives designed to empower youth voices within the Westchester nonprofit ecosystem.
