914Cares successfully hosted its first-ever Youth Symposium: The Power of Youth in Service on April 14, welcoming 54 students from 13 Westchester county high schools and community leaders from across Westchester County to its Arming headquarters. The event served as a bridge between today’s changemakers and the philanthropic leaders of tomorrow, focusing on the vital roles of collaboration, advocacy, and social impact. 

The symposium provided a unique, multi-dimensional look at the nonprofit sector, combining high-level panel discussions with a tangible volunteer activity. Students engaged directly with professionals from healthcare, government, and corporate social responsibility. 

Highlights from the Symposium: The morning featured two cornerstone panel discussions that pulled back the curtain on how Westchester’s social safety net operates: 

– Collaborating for Change in Westchester County: Moderated by Limarie Cabrera, Director of Data, Operations & Finance, Westchester Children’s Association, this session featured representatives from 914Cares, Theodore D. Young Community Center, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, and White Plains Hospital. The conversation centered on how organizations must work together—rather than in silos—to address the complex needs of Westchester families. 

– Careers That Change Communities: Moderated by Suzanne Gardos, Director of Operations, Nonprofit Westchester, panelists from 914Cares, NeighborsLink, Hope’s Door, Ossining Union Free School District and Regeneron illustrated that a “career in service” can range from grassroots advocacy to corporate philanthropy. 

Service in Action: The event went beyond dialogue, as students participated in a hands-on volunteer activity between sessions. Students packed 240 Flow Kits (containing period pads and liners), and 450 Hygiene Kits (personal care products), all basic essentials that 914Cares distributes to local children and families through its 200-plus community partners. 

“Today was about showing young people that their passion for helping others has a professional home,” said Lisa Horten, 914Cares Chief Executive Officer. “Seeing these students engage with our leaders and roll up their sleeves to do the work proves that the future of Westchester is in very capable hands.” 

914Cares is a Westchester County nonprofit committed to ensuring that children and families in need have access to the basic essentials required to live with dignity and opportunity. Through the distribution of clothing, diapers, hygiene and period products, and books, 914Cares helps address the everyday barriers that can impact a child’s health, confidence, and ability to thrive. By working in close partnership with 200-plus community organizations, 914Cares responds to urgent needs while also raising awareness about poverty and inspiring collective action across the community. Through service, advocacy, and collaboration, 914Cares is building a stronger, more compassionate Westchester for all. 

For more information, visit www.914cares.org.