This fall, BCYF will host the Kickoff Webinar to launch the 2025–2026 the learning lab. This interactive online gathering will introduce the program structure, themes, and expectations, while inspiring participants with stories and insights from Baltimore and beyond.
Framed by the theme “The Youth Master Plan,” the webinar will emphasize how every aspect of the lab connects back to Baltimore’s bold, community-driven vision for youth leadership, equity, and opportunity.
The Kickoff Webinar will advance the YMP by:
Building Capacity: Equipping participants with clarity and tools to thrive in the program year.
Expanding Equity & Access: Offering a virtual, no-cost entry point to the lab.
Strengthening Collaboration: Establishing common goals and community agreements.
Part of BCYF’s the learning lab: building skills, connection, and power for Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
Impact Highlights (from past Kickoff Webinars)
- Strong Participation: Over 90% of registrants attended the full session.
- High Engagement: 85% found the webinar very or somewhat engaging.
- Clarity of Information: 88% rated the content as extremely or very clear and relevant.
- Positive Anticipation: Participants left excited for Learning Circles and Opening Plenaries.
- Satisfaction: 91% of past the learning lab participants reported extreme satisfaction, and 95% cited knowledge/skills gains.
What You’ll Gain
- Clarity: A clear overview of the learning lab structure, including Learning Circles, Drop-In Sessions, #bcreds, Conferences, and the Community Exhibition.
- Connection: Opportunities to engage with peers through Q&A, chat, and interactive discussions.
- Inspiration: Stories and insights from youth leaders and partners on what it means to participate in the learning lab
- Momentum: A collective sense of excitement and readiness for the 2025–2026 program year.
How It Works
The Fall 2025 Kickoff Webinar will serve as both orientation and inspiration:
- Introduce the learning lab’s purpose, structure, and year-long timeline.
- Share expectations for participant engagement and success.
- Highlight connections to Baltimore’s Youth Master Plan and how the lab supports Baltimore’s youth ecosystem.
- Preview upcoming milestones, including:
- Learning Circles (Jan–June 2026)
- Drop-In Sessions & gather! Dinners (2025–2026)
- Opening Plenaries (Harlem, Oakland, Philadelphia)
- The Gathering 2025: Roots & Reach (Nov 17, 2025)
- Closing Community Exhibition (June 2026)
Supports Available
- Pre-webinar communications to prepare participants.
- Interactive tech features: live Q&A, chat, and multimedia presentations.
- Post-webinar follow-up to confirm participation in Learning Circles, plenaries, and Drop-In Sessions.
Voices from the Community
“The session on collaboration reminded me that we are stronger when we’re in sync.”
“The Kickoff Webinar gave me clarity: I knew what to expect, and I am excited to be part of the journey.”