YouthForce

✨ Featured Program: SAY Conference ✨

BGCA's Summit for America’s Youth (SAY) 2025, in Washington, D.C., brought together more than 500 teens nationwide to amplify their voices on community issues, present advocacy projects, and meet with members of Congress on causes such as youth mental health, food sustainability, community gardens, and federal funding for youth programs.

YouthForce staff Kiarra Scott & Eugene Garrett accompanied YouthForce teens to the conference, where they connected with peers, presented on advocating for mental health in schools, and explored national landmarks including the African American History Museum, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Capitol. They also met with US Congress and advisors to discuss 21st Century Club funding and even witnessed a Senate vote in session.

Despite the summer heat, the experience was powerful, inspiring, and unforgettable for the cohort’s first trip to D.C.!

Intern Spotlight: Jamal Guy

“My experience with YouthForce has been good. The kids really liked me, and I got along with everyone because I stayed engaged with the sports and activities. A lot of them talk crazy, but I never really talked back—I just let it go because they’re kids. I enjoyed being around them; they made me smile and laugh. I like working with youth because it’s good seeing them grow and making sure they’re okay. I noticed a lot of myself in them, especially in how they act, and when I see them misbehaving, I feel like I can give give them game to help them do better.”

“It helps me figure out if I want to be a staff leader in the future or if I want to work more directly with kids. It definitely helped me see what I’m good at and whether I want to do this long-term. I could see myself working here again, maybe even in a teaching role.”

Thanks for your hard work Jamal! 🔥👏

Field Day 2025 🌤️⚽🏆

YouthForce brought the strategy with our own checkers station! Kids challenged their minds and had a blast 🚀 We also brought Jenga and Connect 4 for some extra mindgames!

Meanwhile, soccer and football kept the energy up, and from golf swings to dance moves, Field Day was full of fun and community!

Huge thanks to Club members and staff from King County summer day camps, YouthForce interns and staff, and the activity partners who made this possible. We had so much fun! 💙🎉

Intern Spotlight: Dylan Stewart

“My experience was very fun because I clicked with the kids quickly, and they got comfortable with me after a few days. They would have me step out of my comfort zone, which is good for my mental health, and it gives me access to have fun.”

Thanks for all your hard work, Dylan! 👏

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Program Highlight: Red-Tailed Hawks ✈️

The Red-Tailed Hawks gave participants a hands-on introduction to the world of aviation, exploring the physics, science, and real-world applications that make flight possible.

Youth put their new knowledge to the test by making their own flyable crafts, and seeing if they could really take off!

Thank you Red-Tailed Hawks Flying Club for making this possible.

Program Highlight: Work Learn & Earn

Work Learn & Earn introduced students to marketing and entrepreneurship.

They teamed up to create mini businesses, complete with mission statements, logos, and marketing plans. Along the way, they practiced teamwork, pitching, and creative thinking—all while building real-world skills.

Beyond the classroom, youth also stepped out and explored the city.
..from cheering at a Mariners game to walking through the iconic Pike Place Market, these field trips offered a fun and refreshing break. They gave students a chance to bond, experience Seattle’s culture, and recharge before diving back into their learning and projects.

Program Highlight: Diversity in Design

This year, YouthForce participants visited the LMN Architects office in Downtown Seattle to explore the design process behind the new Seattle Aquarium building and learn how architecture and design come together in real-world projects.

Youth also toured the Seattle Aquarium’s new building to see the design come to life—experiencing firsthand how ideas go from screen to structure.

Thank you LMN Architects !