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Ithaca Today
By the People, for the People
Teens Take the Lead at Leadership in Action Summit in Ithaca
Ithaca Youth Bureau's Youth Council Ambassadors host first annual event showcasing youth-led solutions
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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The Youth Council Ambassadors (YCA) of the Ithaca Youth Bureau will host their first annual 'Leadership in Action Summit' on Friday at the Ithaca Youth Bureau. The Summit gives local officials, community leaders, and the public a chance to hear directly from teens about the issues affecting young people in Tompkins County, and the steps they're taking to address them.
Why it matters
The event highlights the importance of youth civic engagement and empowering young people to take an active role in shaping their communities. By providing a platform for teens to present their ideas and solutions, the Summit aims to demonstrate the valuable perspectives and leadership that youth can contribute.
The details
Youth Council Ambassadors meet weekly from October through March, developing leadership skills and designing civic action projects on pressing social issues. This year, presentations will focus on food insecurity, homelessness, and access to school-based mental health resources. Attendees can engage with Ambassadors, ask questions, and see firsthand how teens are shaping solutions in their community.
- The Summit will take place on Friday, March 10, 2026.
- The event kicks off with a 1:30 PM reception, followed by opening remarks at 2:00 PM, youth presentations at 2:15 PM, and a closing reception at 3:15 PM.
The players
Youth Council Ambassadors (YCA)
A group of local teens who meet weekly to develop leadership skills and design civic action projects on pressing social issues in Tompkins County.
Ithaca Youth Bureau
A municipal organization that provides programs and services to support the development and well-being of young people in the Ithaca community.
Ever Stokes
The YCA Program Coordinator, who emphasizes the importance of youth civic action and creating spaces for young people to lead.
What they’re saying
“Youth civic action matters now more than ever. This Summit creates space for young people not only to be heard, but to lead.”
— Ever Stokes, YCA Program Coordinator (Finger Lakes Daily News)
What’s next
The Youth Council Ambassadors plan to continue their weekly meetings and civic action projects throughout the year, with the goal of addressing the issues highlighted at the Leadership in Action Summit.
The takeaway
The Leadership in Action Summit demonstrates the power of youth leadership and the valuable perspectives that young people can bring to addressing pressing community issues. By empowering teens to take an active role in shaping their communities, the event highlights the importance of creating platforms for youth civic engagement.
