YSS 2026 Conference
This year’s theme, Empowering Our Own: From Community to Collective Action, celebrates the power of the YSS network and inspires us to turn our shared vision into meaningful action.
Join out-of-school time providers, educators, youth development professionals, and community partners from across the county for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Whether you work directly with youth or support programs behind the scenes, you’ll leave with new ideas, strategies and connections to help strengthen your programs.
August 18 | Opening Session @ The East End | The event kicks off at 5:00 pm with appetizers, drinks and networking. The presentation will start of 5:45 pm with opening remarks followed by a panel of young adults moderated by Bryce Harris of Always Climbing.
August 19 | Day of Learning @ Akron-Summit County Public Library | Join us from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Akron-Summit County Public Library. Attendees will choose from a variety of sessions aligned to one of six strands:
- Staff & youth mental health and well-being
- Giant Leadership that inspires and sustains
- Program quality & youth development essentials (offered twice for maximum flexibility)
- Family and community engagement strategies
- Accessing funding and resources
- Making waves in policy and advocacy for youth
Come ready to learn, leave inspired to take action in support of the youth we serve.
Cost:
YSS Members are FREE. Non-YSS Members are $100.
Event Sponsors:
