Learn
Preconference
Join us for Preconference for The Gathering: Roots & Reach, a day of co-creation and intergenerational learning that brings together nearly 60 leaders from Baltimore’s youth development ecosystem.
Youth, educators, grassroots organizers, program staff, and system leaders will come together as equals to shape new frameworks for leadership and youth voice. Participants will take part in two interactive learning tracks:
- Expanding Reach: Intergenerational Leadership — defining how youth and adults can share power, lead together, and create guiding principles for Baltimore’s future.
- Sports & Athletics: Centering Youth Voice — building a framework to ensure youth have a meaningful role in shaping how sports are organized, played, and led in our city.
We’ll publish a Learning Report after every conference, sharing what youth and community members said, what they learned, and how that learning turns into real actions for Baltimore’s Youth Master Plan.
Impact from Past Events
“These gatherings give youth and adults the chance to lead together, and that changes how we build for the future.”
— Participant from a prior learning lab
Contact & Social
Contact: info@bcyfund.org
Who It’s For
Youth and staff from BCYF grantee partners organizations.Event Details
- Date: Saturday, November 8, 2025
- Time:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Baltimore Unity Hall
- Format: In-person, hands-on learning and site visits
- Cost/Registration Info: Free to attend. Stipends available for youth participants. Meals, transportation, and materials provided.
What You’ll Gain
- Clarity: Practical tools to define intergenerational leadership and center youth voice in sports.
- Connection: Collaborate with youth, peers, and system leaders across Baltimore’s ecosystem.
- Inspiration: Explore community-led models during site visits and see youth leadership in action.
- Momentum: Contribute to frameworks that will inform Baltimore’s Youth Master Plan and carry lessons forward to your own work.
Agenda Snapshot
A full day of learning and connection: breakfast and welcome, focused learning tracks, intergenerational lunch, site visits across Baltimore, group debrief and reflection, and a closing celebration to carry forward new insights and commitments.Speakers / Facilitators
Speakers and facilitators will include youth leaders, community organizers, and BCYF partners. Full list to be announced.Supports Available
- Stipends for youth participants
- Transportation from key neighborhoods
- Meals and snacks provided throughout the day, including dinner-to-go
- Creative and interactive activities, including music, art, and storytelling
