Youth Voices: Bold Faith
A UCC Youth-Centered Week of Advocacy in Washington D.C.
June 14th – 19th, 2026
Application deadline is Sunday February 22, 2026 at 9pm. Review of applications will begin February 23 2026, and applicants will be notified by February 27, 2026.
Youth Voices: Bold Faith
Speaking Truth to Power for a Just World for All
Are you ready to make your voice heard? Join the United Church of Christ in Washington, D.C. for Youth Voices: Bold Faith, a week-long immersion in faith-based advocacy, justice, and community. Together, we’ll explore how our faith calls us to speak truth to power, stand up for what’s right, and work toward a world where all can thrive. Applications are live!
Save the Date: June 14th – 19th
Participants will:
⭐️ Engage with leaders making change on Capitol Hill and beyond;
⭐️ Learn practical tools for organizing, advocacy, and public witness;
⭐️ Engage in Youth Leadership Development
⭐️ Build deep connections with peers who share your passion for justice and hope for the world.
This transformative experience is a collaboration between the UCC Office of Public Policy & Advocacy and NOWCYM (United Church of Christ Network of Wider Church Youth Ministries).
Space is limited and individuals will be considered on an application basis. Youth who have just completed either 10th, 11th, or 12th grade by Summer 2026 are welcome to apply.
Bring your courage, your convictions, and your voice. The world needs your leadership now more than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Application deadline is Sunday February 22, 2026 at 9:00pm ET.
High school students who will complete 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in Summer 2026 are invited to apply for this program.
Registration cost is $250 per person. This includes lodging, ground transportation in D.C., meals, and programming. Travel logistics and cost to get to and from Washington D.C. are the responsibility of accepted applicants. The Network of Wider Church Youth Ministries (NOWCYM) will work with accepted applicants to connect with their local church, association, and conference to support the cost of attendance.
Upon arrival in Washington D.C., chaperones and adult supervision will be provided by the Network of Wider Church Youth Ministries. Participants will also engage with staff from the UCC Office of Public Policy and Advocacy. NOWCYM operates under the Church Safety Policies of the National Ministries of the UCC, and works with HR to secure background checks and training. Practices as recommended by the Insurance Board will be utilized onsite for this event, and all adult chaperones will have an updated background screening and additional abuse prevention training.
Review of applications will begin February 23 2026, and applicants will be notified by March 1, 2026. $250.00 payment and registration for accepted applicants will be due by March 27, 2026.
Please feel free to reach out to the Network of Wider Church Youth Ministries at nowcymucc@gmail.com with any questions or for more information.You can also join an information session via Zoom for anyone interested in applying Sunday, January 25, at 7:00 pm EST. Join via this link.
Questions? Contact us.
Please feel free to reach out to the Network of Wider Church Youth Ministries at nowcymucc@gmail.com with any questions or for more information.