The 2025 Youth Council Summit program will take place at the Wayne G. Sanborn Activity Center in DeLand, FL on November 8, 2025 from 9:00-4:00. The cost for this event is $50.00 per person. Students must be members of an established municipal youth council in order to participate in this program.
The deadline to register is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025. Youth council registration cancellations must be made in writing via email to erussell@flcities.com. All cancellations received in the FLC office by 5:00 p.m. Friday, October 24, 2025, will receive refunds. Refunds will be issued after the event.
Youth Council Program:
The 2025 Youth Council Summit theme is Understanding Leadership. Attendees will discuss and learn about:
- Servant Leadership – What does it mean to be a servant leader?
- Advocacy – How do you advocate as a leader?
- Leading by Example – How can you work with and encourage others?
Facilitator: Marquitta Caesar is a dedicated individual passionate about making a positive impact in her community. Since 2006, Marquitta has been actively involved with the Orlando After School All Stars program, supporting and encouraging youth in the Orlando communities. Furthermore, she is the proud owner of Youth Program Development Consulting, an organization aiming to empower young people and support their growth and success.
Youth Council Coordinator Program:
Beyond Behavior: See, Hear, Welcome is an immersive training experience for adults working with youth who are often misunderstood, labeled, or dismissed. Rooted in relationship-first practices, this workshop helps adults shift from behavior-based responses to belief-based relationships.
Participants will explore how to:
- Recognize youth identity beneath disruptive behavior (SEE)
- Uplift youth voice by listening with empathy and intention (HEAR)
- Create emotionally safe and culturally affirming spaces for youth to return and thrive (WELCOME)
Whether you're a teacher, advocate, mentor, or program leader, you’ll leave this training with tangible strategies, real stories, and renewed purpose for reaching today’s youth.
Facilitator: Bobby L. Belton, Jr. is the Program Manager for the City of Orlando’s Youth Employment Program and My Brother’s Keeper Orlando. With over 16 years of experience in youth development, he helps young people access career opportunities, mentoring, and life-mapping strategies that prepare them for long-term success. Bobby is known for his practical, engaging approach that equips leaders and communities to go beyond behavior and transform outcomes for youth.
By signing up for this event, you acknowledge and agree that photographs and/or videos may be taken during the event for promotional and documentation purposes. These images may be used by the event organizers for marketing materials, social media posts and other promotional activities without compensation. If you have any questions or concerns, please email erussell@flcities.com.