FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2026 DMV Youth Impact Awards are officially open!

In partnership with Eden Center, the Ebenstein Foundation, schools, businesses, and community organizations across the region, we are proud to present the 2026 Youth Impact Awards in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia at the Moon Festival at Eden Center on September 26, 2026.

Who can apply:

• Applications are open now through September 17, 2026
• Students must 1) be enrolled in a DC, Maryland, or Virginia middle or high school, 2) maintain a 3.0 GPA, and 3) and have completed at least 10 hours of community service between August 17, 2025 and August 17, 2026

All awardees will be celebrated together at the Moon Festival at Eden Center on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 5:30 p.m

New this year: 10 Standout Honorees will be selected by our judging committee, each receiving a $250 cash award

Learn more: uqr.to/DMVYouthImpact

This initiative is about so much more than medals or certificates. It’s about shining a light on students who are working hard in school and still find time to give back to our community in meaningful ways. These students represent the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow. By celebrating them today, we remind ourselves and the students that their voices, ideas, and actions matter.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, mentor, business leader, donor, or neighbor, there’s a place for you in this effort:

• Share the application with students, families, and school communities you’re connected to
• Encourage a student who may not think their service counts to apply. Many of the most meaningful stories come from quiet, everyday acts of service, not big titles
• Support the program as a sponsor, helping fund awards, certificates, and the celebration itself
• Connect us with educators, counselors, or community leaders who work directly with DMV youth

Together, we can ensure our youth know their contributions matter and that their journey of leadership is just beginning. For more information about the Youth Impact Awards or ways to get involved, please contact us at hello@TogetherWeThriveUSA.org.