National Advocacy Days - Washington, D.C. - March 2026 Newsletter

(In Photo from Left to Right: Paul Kieltyka, Sam Frisby, Laura Humphries, Samantha Mossa, Laura Rodriguez, Senator Andy Kim, Samvi Raj, Joseph Gaffney, M.D., Julie Gallanty, Ramon Hache, Sr., Tracy Crane, Karlito Almeda)

In March, The Alliance joined YMCA advocates from across the country in Washington, DC for YMCA National Advocacy Days.

YMCA leaders and Youth and Government (YAG) students meet with members of Congress and their staff to discuss federal policies and investments that support YMCA programs and the communities they serve. These conversations highlight the important role Ys play in advancing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across the country.

The YAG delegates shared stories about the impact of YMCA programs throughout New Jersey and discussed the importance of continued federal support for initiatives that strengthen families, expand youth leadership opportunities, and promote community well-being.

National Advocacy Days provide an important opportunity for YMCA leaders and young advocates to ensure that federal policymakers understand the role YMCAs play in strengthening communities and supporting families nationwide.

A Youth and Government student perspective from National Advocacy Days will be featured in the Youth and Government section of this newsletter.