Genesee County Youth Conference Held at GCC
Published on March 17, 2026
The Genesee County Youth Conference is an annual event that brings together seventh and eighth grade students from Genesee and Orleans counties for a day of learning, connection, and personal growth.
Held at Genesee Community College, the conference focuses on helping students build positive relationships, strengthen communication skills, and better understand the impact their words and actions have on others.
Promoting Kindness and Empathy
This year’s conference theme, Spreading Kindness and Enhancing Empathy, encouraged students to be more inclusive, supportive, and understanding of one another. Through workshops and group activities, participants explored ways to connect with others and create a more positive school and community environment.
Interactive Workshops and Activities
Students participated in a variety of engaging workshops led by local law enforcement agencies, social services organizations, and arts-based facilitators. These sessions provided hands-on opportunities to:
- Build communication and interpersonal skills
- Learn about community resources and support systems
- Express themselves through creative activities
- Develop a stronger understanding of empathy and inclusion
Keynote Speaker
The conference also featured a keynote presentation by David Flood, titled You're Not Alone: How Empathy Changes the Way We See Each Other and Ourselves. His message encouraged students to look beyond appearances, avoid judgment, and recognize the importance of compassion, self-awareness, and supporting one another.
Community Support
The success of the Youth Conference is made possible through the support of volunteers, workshop presenters, school chaperones, and community partners who help create a meaningful experience for local students each year.
For more information about the Genesee County Youth Conference, contact the Genesee County Youth Bureau.