2026 Bridge Conference

Every day, youth development professionals make decisions shaped by beliefs about respect, success, leadership, behavior, belonging, and care. But where did those beliefs come from?

Through reflection, dialogue, and interactive activities, participants will explore how socialization influences the way we see ourselves, one another, and the young people we serve. Together, we will examine the messages we inherited from family, schools, communities, media, and society, and consider how those messages show up in our programs, policies, and practices today. This session invites participants to move beyond judgment and toward curiosity as we explore what it means to learn, unlearn, and intentionally create environments where both young people and youth workers can thrive.