Crittenton Girls Take On Capitol Hill for a Day of Advocacy and Leadership

(YorkPedia Editorial):- DC, Washington Jun 30, 2026 (Issuewire.com) – On Tuesday, June 23rd, nearly fifty student participants from Crittenton Services of Greater Washington came together for a reimagined Teen Girls Unity Walk, focused on leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy. The inaugural Teen Girls Unity Walk took place on the Lincoln Memorial, and this year, students traveled from Montgomery County, Maryland, to the U.S. Capitol to meet with congressional staff from the offices of Maryland’s two U.S. Senators and eight Members of Congress. During these meetings, students asked thoughtful questions about immigration, the economy, how a bill becomes a law, and other issues affecting young people while gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process and how elected officials and their staff serve their communities.

In addition to touring the U.S. Capitol, students experienced firsthand how government works beyond the classroom, building confidence as they engaged in meaningful discussions about the issues shaping their communities. The experience encouraged students to use their voices, ask questions, and see advocacy as a powerful tool for creating positive change.

“Advocacy begins with understanding that your voice matters,” said Sheena R. Foster, CEO of Crittenton Services of Greater Washington. “Providing opportunities for young people to engage directly with our nation’s leaders helps build confidence, strengthens civic knowledge, and empowers them to become active participants in shaping their communities.”

Following the Capitol meetings, students gathered for a celebratory dinner and games at Dave & Buster’s, giving them an opportunity to reflect on the day’s experiences, celebrate their advocacy efforts, and enjoy time together.

This leadership experience was made possible through the generous support of the DC Department of Employment Services (DOES), the V&S Foundation, The Schattner Foundation, and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services – Child, Youth, and Family Services, whose investment in youth leadership and civic engagement continues to create meaningful opportunities for Crittenton students.

About Crittenton Services of Greater Washington

For more than 137 years, Crittenton Services of Greater Washington has empowered girls and young women to become confident, resilient leaders through evidence-based youth development programs. Serving students throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Baltimore, Crittenton provides mentoring, leadership development, academic support, career exploration, and wellness programming that helps girls build the skills and confidence to thrive in school, at home, and in their communities. Learn more at www.crittentonservices.org.