Wilmington, Delaware – Four remarkable teens from the YMCA of Delaware’s Youth In Government (YIG) program proudly represented the First State at the YMCA Changemakers Summit in Orlando, Florida, showcasing student-led solutions to community issues with innovation, compassion, and impact.
Two Delaware-based teams were selected to attend the national YMCA Changemakers Summit, where high school students from across the country pitched projects designed to address pressing needs in their local communities. Each project was created and led by two student leaders committed to driving change.
Jeshen Kannan and Allison Hong earned a $1,000 award for their winning project, “It’s Okay Not To Be Okay.” This mental health initiative challenges stigma while expanding access to mental health education and resources across Delaware. In partnership with local organizations like UnLocke The Light and Sean’s House, school districts, and Delaware YMCAs, the project includes speaker events, peer-led training, and a 24/7 virtual resource center to connect students with mental health support and trained peer responders.
Another Delaware team, Audrey Curtis and Iyanna Flores, presented “Kickstart the Game,” a project focused on making soccer accessible to youth in underserved communities. The initiative aims to break down financial barriers through affordable programming, donated equipment, and partnerships with local organizations, ensuring every child, regardless of background, can play and grow through sport.
“We are so proud of these youth leaders who are demonstrating the power of young voices to create real change,” said Jascelyn Parson, Youth In Government Program Director at the YMCA of Delaware. “Their ideas, passion, and commitment to their communities are inspiring and reflect the core mission of the Y.”
The YMCA Changemakers Summit is part of the YMCA’s national effort to elevate youth-led civic engagement, encouraging teens in grades 9–12 to identify and address real needs in their neighborhoods. The event gives young people a national platform to network, learn, and showcase their ideas alongside peers from across the country.
For more information on Youth In Government or teen leadership opportunities at the YMCA of Delaware, visit www.ymcade.org.
About the YMCA of Delaware
The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed longstanding relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing, and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potential. www.ymcade.org.
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