BGCC Members Take Their Voice to Capitol Hill

Youth advocacy is a cornerstone of Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago (BGCC), and recently, four of our Club members had the chance to make their voices heard on one of the largest stages — Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

These young leaders were selected to attend Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s 2024 Summit for America’s Youth (SAY), a four-day event bringing together hundreds of youth from across the country to advocate for issues important to their communities. They met with influential leaders, learned from professionals in advocacy and business, and had the opportunity to share their perspectives on key issues affecting young people today.

“The D.C. trip was amazing and more,” said Mathew, a 2024 BGCC Youth of the Year finalist. “Words can’t describe how I felt, especially sharing the experience with people I have true connections with.”

Mathew and his fellow Club members from the Pedersen-McCormick Club had the unique opportunity to meet with the offices of Illinois representatives, including Senator Tammy Duckworth, Senator Dick Durbin, and Representative Jan Schakowsky. They discussed topics ranging from education to youth development, gaining firsthand experience in civic engagement.

The group also took in the sights of the nation’s capital, visiting monuments, like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., enjoying a tour of Capitol Hill and visiting the National Air & Space Museum.

“My favorite part of the trip was meeting our House of Representatives and U.S. Senators,” Mathew reflected. “This experience taught me how important it is to guide our youth on the right path.”

By attending the 2024 SAY Summit, these young leaders elevated their voices and brought important conversations from their communities to the national stage at Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

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