Prepare to be Inspired!

The Food Bank's Youth Leadership Summit was born when our advocacy and education team began to dream of a way to engage youth beyond a one-time volunteer shift or Hunger 101 class. It was our hope to make a strong enough impact with participants that they would bring the issues of hunger and poverty back to their communities and continue to be involved in these issues throughout their lives.

Though only in its second year, the annual Youth Leadership Summit has claimed its rightful place in the hearts of the Food Bank staff and Summit leaders. It is absolutely one of our favorite traditions. We cannot help but be moved - and filled with hope - when we hear the words of our participants, and see them in action. But, perhaps more importantly, it has also claimed a place in their hearts.

Thirteen Summit attendees spent the week of June 2-6 being immersed in the work of the Food Bank, and visiting some of our partner agencies - My Sister's House, Atlanta Children's Shelter and Antioch Baptist Church North. They visited the State Capitol and were inspired by the enthusiasm of policy makers who, in their words, "shot down a lot of stereotypes about politicians." They played games together, created action plans together, dreamed big together, cheered each other on and were passionate in their desire to come back - They didn't want the experience to end!

We hope - through these photos and quotes - that you can catch a glimpse of how powerful this experience was for us and for this incredible group of young people. Watch out world, here they come!