Impact Stories

A Deeper Dive into Health and Safety of NOVA Youth 

This in-depth session will continue our January conversation in a more focused lense. We will dive deeper into the critical issues affecting the safety and well-being of youth in Northern Virginia (NOVA), providing a comprehensive exploration of the complex factors influencing students today. Building on foundational topics, we’ll examine key challenges surrounding students' perceptions of safety, mental health concerns, and substance use trends in the region.

This session is designed to provide educators, mental health professionals, community leaders, and parents with a deeper understanding of the pressing safety and health challenges facing youth in NOVA. 

When School Lunch is not Available, How do NOVA Youth Eat?
June 17, 2025 at 12:00 pm 
Zoom 

Join us for an in-depth discussion on the growing issue of food scarcity among youth in Northern Virginia. This session will explore the complex factors contributing to food insecurity in the region, the impact it has on the health and well-being of local young people, and the innovative solutions being implemented to address this critical issue.

This session is essential for educators, school administrators, nonprofit leaders, community organizers, policymakers, and anyone passionate about addressing food insecurity in Northern Virginia.

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Housing Needs of NOVA Youth
August 21, 2025 at 12:00 pm 
Zoom 

In this session, we will explore the critical issue of housing instability among youth in Northern Virginia, a growing challenge that impacts their overall well-being, educational outcomes, and future opportunities. With rising housing costs and a lack of affordable options, many young people in the region are facing uncertainty and insecurity in their living situations. Key topics will include the scope of housing instability in NOVA, impact on youth development, identifying their needs, and community solutions working to address this widespread issue. 

This session is vital for educators, social service providers, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and community leaders looking to better understand the housing challenges faced by youth in NOVA and learn about strategies to ensure that every young person has access to safe, stable housing.

Back to School: Focus on NOVA Youth Educational Performance 

As students in Northern Virginia head back to school, it's the perfect time to take a closer look at the educational performance of youth in the region. This session will explore key factors influencing academic success, challenges facing students, and the support systems that can help improve educational outcomes for all learners. Key topics will include: current trends in educational performance, barriers to success, support systems and interventions, and collaborative solutions. 

This session is designed for educators, school administrators, parents, social service providers, and community leaders looking to better understand the state of youth education in Northern Virginia and explore actionable strategies to support student success.

The combination of compassion and action can leave an enduring legacy. Indeed, one individual’s goodwill can achieve more than short-term relief—it can create a ripple effect of generosity. Take Sandra Swirski, who recently described how gratitude for philanthropy inspired her to launch a career in philanthropy law and the Swirski Family Fund with the Community Foundation’s Family Giving Program.