Filling Capitol Hill with a Generation Ready to Lead

Last week, the halls of Capitol Hill were buzzing with the voices of tomorrow’s leaders. Thanks to support from Dollar Tree, Club teens from across the country, including six members from Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore, spent four powerful days in Washington, D.C. for the Summit for America’s Youth (SAY)—Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s biggest youth advocacy event of the year. 

From hands-on training and real talk with lawmakers to sharing ideas that started back at their Clubs, these teens proved that big change can start with a single voice and go all the way to Capitol Hill.  

Advocacy in Action 

Our Club teens and members from across the country came together for a powerful day of advocacy training and connection. Through breakout sessions led by BGCA’s Office of Government Relations, youth sharpened their skills ahead of congressional meetings—learning how to share their stories, speak up for their communities, and lead with purpose. 

Afterward, teens got to unwind and soak in the sights of our nation’s capital—exploring Smithsonian Museums, visiting D.C.’s iconic landmarks, and finding inspiration around every corner.  

One of the week’s highlights? A BGCMB teen was selected to takeover the official Boys & Girls Clubs of America Instagram account, giving thousands of followers a behind-the-scenes look at SAY through their eyes.

“Visiting the monuments was my favorite part,” shared Club member, Devin. “Learning the meaning behind them, like how Dr. King stood up for people, inspired me. That encourages me to speak up for my community and help create change.” 

From the Clubhouse to Congress 

One of the week’s most powerful moments came when Club teens took their voices straight to Capitol Hill. They met face-to-face with senators, representatives, and staffers, bringing forward ideas and stories rooted in their lived experiences. 

“Standing on Capitol Hill, our teens didn’t just speak, they were heard,” shared Club Manager Kyra Nichols. “Their stories, shaped by real-life experiences, carried the power to inspire change.” 

A Launchpad for Lifelong Leadership 

As the Summit wrapped up, teens returned home energized and empowered with tools, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how to be changemakers in their communities. 

Club member Karis shared, “SAY showed me how I can make an impact — even as a kid.” 

Thanks to the partnership with Dollar Tree, the Summit for America’s Youth continues to give Club members more than a seat at the table—it gives them the microphone. 

America Needs Club Kids—and this week, they reminded us that the world needs their voices now more than ever.