Summer Program
The Young Writers Workshop
The Young Writers Workshop is a youth-led summer program dedicated to fostering a love for creative writing and reading among underserved children in Jacksonville, Florida. Concluding the workshop, each child composes their own short story which is then published, printed, and delivered to their home.
Clothing Swaps
The goal of our clothing swaps is to bring awareness to the major issues caused by fast fashion and serve as a simple way to avoid it. Participants swap valuable but no longer used items for new, free clothing. Our clothing swaps are not just a smart way to replenish one's wardrobe, but also an act of environmental sustainability.
October-December
Holiday Drive
Our mission is to bring holiday gifts and and spirit to underserved children and their families in the Jacksonville area. Community members who are giving can be paired with a receiving family through Amazon wishlist, providing a personal experience that benefits everyone involved and brings holiday joy to all!
The People’s Abortion Rally
As a youth organization dedicated to promoting social justice and inspiring change, YVC makes it a priority to take action in the subjects we write about. At the People's Abortion Rally, we witnessed firsthand the power of collective voices coming together to advocate for bodily autonomy and women's rights. We left the rally motivated to continue fighting for a world where individuals have the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies without judgment or restriction.
October
Banned Book Libraries
In honor of National Book Banning Week, YVC organized a book drive that successfully gathered a remarkable collection of banned books, valued at over $1000. Collaborating with 904WARD, the donated books found new homes in "Little Free Diverse Libraries" across underserved areas in Jacksonville.
Ink 4 Impact
Ink 4 Impact is an empowering scholarship competition for Northeast Florida’s low-income high school juniors and seniors. It invites participants to articulate their perspectives on global issues through writing or art, offering a $1,000 scholarship for the winning entry. More than a financial reward, this initiative fosters personal growth, celebrates diverse backgrounds, and encourages a community of engaged individuals. All submitted pieces, regardless of winning status, will be considered for publication on the Young Voices for Change website, ensuring that every participant has the opportunity to share their impactful perspectives with a broader audience.
Beyond Limits Podcast
Beyond Limits: A Podcast on Our Changing Planet explores how our actions affect the world around us, focusing on the nine planetary boundaries that keep our Earth healthy. From climate change to ocean acidification, discover the science behind these issues and learn how to make a difference for a sustainable future.
Pickleball for a Purpose
Pickleball for a Purpose was created out of a desire to raise awareness and support for victims of human trafficking, utilizing the burgeoning platform of pickleball. Teaming up with Rethreaded, an employment and community center aiding survivors, we've established a powerful partnership aimed at directing crucial funds towards empowerment resources.
Safe Cycle Campaign
The Safe Cycle Campaign by YVC is dedicated to collecting and donating organic, nontoxic period products to young mothers and families in need. Partnering with the Hey, Mama Mobile Pantry, a program by the NEFHSC, we aim to provide safe menstrual products to communities in resource-limited areas of Duval County.