08/14/2026
This week was a powerful reminder of what can happen when we invest our time, energy, resources, and belief in young people.
Our Academic & Career Exploration Youth Showcase celebrated three years of ACE and offered an incredible window into the program through the voices of the young people who have grown alongside it.
The youth panel was the heart of the evening. Stuti, Alex, Esta, and Calvin reflected on the experiences that have shaped them, offered thoughtful and honest feedback about the program, shared where they're headed next, and spoke about the people and opportunities that have helped them get there.
Their confidence was unmistakable. So was their ability to imagine a future for themselves, identify what excites them, and begin building their own pathways forward.
This is why investing in young people matters. When we give them opportunities to explore, take risks, build relationships, and discover what they're capable of, they don't just prepare for what's next—they gain the confidence and tools to shape it for themselves.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to listen, celebrate, ask questions, and learn from our youth. To the partners, supporters, mentors, businesses, and community members who continue to open doors alongside us. Thank you to NorthCountry Federal Credit Union for not only being a Champion Sponsor, but also an incredible financial literacy partner for the ACE program! Thank you to Hula for being our venue partner and truly amazing hosts.
When we invest in young people, we invest in what's possible.