Connecting At-Risk Youth and Families with Resources, Employment Opportunities, and Inspiration

Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries invites area youth, families, community members, and service organizations to attend its 6th Annual Youth Summit on Thursday, June 25th, at its headquarters located at 1220 Outer Park Drive in Springfield. The event will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and is free and open to the public, including a complimentary lunch for all attendees.

For the past six years, the Youth Summit has served as an important gathering that empowers youth by connecting them with educational resources, community organizations, mentors, and employment opportunities. The event provides a welcoming environment where young people and their families can learn about programs and services designed to help them achieve their goals.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Candace Silas, Executive Director & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County, who will share an inspiring message with attendees about the power of community, perseverance, and creating pathways to success.

“Our goal is to help young people envision their future and equip them with the resources they need to achieve it,” said Dr. Ikenna Martin, Youth Services Director at Land of Lincoln Goodwill. “The Youth Summit brings together organizations and employers who are committed to helping youth discover their strengths, build confidence, and take the next steps toward education and employment.”

Throughout the event, youth and families will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from numerous community resources across the Springfield area to learn more about programs and services that support education, mental wellness, career readiness, housing assistance, and family stability.

Employers from the community will also be on hand to introduce young people to summer employment opportunities and discuss what employers look for in prospective candidates. In addition, members of the Land of Lincoln Goodwill Human Resources team will be available to assist youth with completing job applications and answering employment-related questions.

The Youth Services team, led by Dr. Ikenna Martin and Dr. Faraji Martin, will be available throughout the event to answer questions from current participants and families interested in learning more about Goodwill’s Youth Services programs. These programs are offered at no cost to eligible youth and their families. They are designed to provide mentoring, academic support, life skills development, career exploration, and other services that help young people thrive.

“Every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed,” said Dr. Faraji Martin. “This summit is about building connections, opening doors, and ensuring youth and families know they are supported by a community that believes in them.”

The public is encouraged to attend and join Land of Lincoln Goodwill in investing in the future of Springfield’s youth.
Event Details:

  • Event: 5th Annual Youth Summit
  • Date: Thursday, June 25th
  • Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • Location: 1220 Outer Park Drive, Springfield, IL
  • Cost: Free and open to the public
  • Lunch: Complimentary lunch provided

For more information about the Youth Summit or Land of Lincoln Goodwill Youth Services, contact:
Dr. Ikenna Martin
Youth Services Director
Ikenna.martin@llgi.org
217.391.7610

Shelley Singleton
Vice President of Marketing, Communication & Fund Development
shelley.singleton@llgi.org
217.391.7604

Land of Lincoln Goodwill’s Youth Services Mission provides many programs and services designed to promote opportunity and positive choices for youth and young adults who come from diverse backgrounds. Whether it is improving educational performance at school, athletic team building skills, service learning projects, or volunteering opportunities, the Youth Services program at Goodwill has something for every youth in our community.