Youth-Led Change
Launched in 2021, the ACT Youth Council set out to ensure Alexandria youth have a real seat at the table—shaping local decisions, influencing philanthropy, and leading change. The Youth Council is a program by youth, for youth, with members driving priorities, decisions, and funding to address issues that matter most to them. In just four years, Youth Council members have developed leadership skills while making meaningful contributions to the community.
After four inspiring years, the ACT Youth Council will conclude at the end of this calendar year. This milestone is not an ending but a celebration. The Youth Council has given Alexandria’s young leaders a platform to shape conversations, spark ideas, and influence change. Together, they’ve led projects, uplifted issues that matter most to their peers, and reminded us of the creativity, courage, and determination that youth bring to our community.
We are proud to honor these accomplishments and grateful for the many outstanding youth leadership programs that exist in Alexandria. In the months ahead, we will be working alongside our current students to celebrate their contributions and thoughtfully close this chapter, while also sharing what we’ve learned with other programs that continue to nurture youth leadership.
Amplifying youth voice has always been—and will continue to be—at the heart of ACT’s work. We look forward to carrying these lessons forward and to exploring new ways to support and elevate young people across our community. Please contact Shelley Spacek Miller (shelley.miller@actforalexandria.org) if you have any questions.
