MLK Youth Empowerment Summit

The Youth Empowerment Summit is a joyful, community-rooted celebration, planned by youth for youth, designed to honor Dr. King’s legacy through learning, movement, creativity, and connection. With activities happening throughout the park and inside the Boys & Girls Club, young people and families of all ages and abilities can choose their own experience while engaging with partners, workshops, and events that nourish the whole person.

11:00 AM – Summit Opening

Location: Main Stage (MLK Park)

• Welcome and grounding
• Opening song by a local artist
• Reflection from a young person inspired by Dr. King’s words
• Overview of the day’s activities

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM: Feed Your Soul Breakout Sessions (Round 1)

Rotating age-responsive youth-centered sessions offered across multiple spaces, repeated throughout the day so participants can attend more than one.

Topics include: mental health, college and career, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, gaming and coding, movement and wellness, literacy, creativity, and more.

All Day: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM – Community Activities and Resources

Happening across MLK Park

• Basketball tournament
• Games and activities for all ages
• Art stations and creative zones
• Community partner tables with resources and giveaways
• Free food provided throughout the dayThese activities remain open all four hours, allowing families to explore, play, and connect at their own pace.

1:00 PM – 1:45 PM – Main Program Featuring Keynote Speaker Dieter Cantu

Location: Main Stage

The centerpiece of the Youth Summit: a powerful youth-focused keynote from Dieter Cantu, honoring Dr. King’s call to courage, justice, and community care.

Includes:

• Short musical selection
• Introduction of keynote speaker
• Keynote address
• Youth reflection tying the moment to Dr. King’s vision for freedom and collective uplift

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM – Feed Your Soul Breakout Sessions (Round 2)

A second rotation of age-responsive sessions for those who missed earlier offerings or want to explore a new topic.

All Day Until 3:00 PM

Community Gathering & Celebration

Participants move freely between workshops, food vendors, games, art, and partner activities.

Families are encouraged to enjoy the park, visit resource tables, and build community across generations.

3:00 PM – Summit Closing

A collective moment of gratitude and a closing reflection honoring Dr. King’s enduring legacy, reminding

us that the work of justice, joy, and liberation continues with our young people at the center.