Activating the Power of Afterschool
July 21, 2026 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
This signature citywide event celebrates the impact of afterschool on youth and families, promotes innovation, and elevates lessons learned. We welcome Executive Directors, supervisors, and front-line staff from youth-serving community-based agencies, as well as funders, higher education administrators, policymakers, and educators, for a day focused on emerging trends, challenges, and promising practices.
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Announcing our Keynote Speakers
Welcome Remarks: Speaker Julie Menin (New York City Council)
Speaker Julie Menin was elected Speaker of the New York City Council on January 7, 2026. An attorney and civic leader, Speaker Menin has more than three decades of experience in the public and private sectors. Speaker Menin has proudly represented District 5, which includes parts of the Upper East Side and all of Roosevelt Island, in the Council since January 2022. (Read full bio)
Morning Keynote Speaker: Dr. Jocelynne Rainey (Brooklyn Org)
Dr. Jocelynne Rainey is a leader in New York City’s nonprofit sector and a seasoned executive with over 25 years of leadership experience. As President & CEO of Brooklyn Org, Dr. Rainey has led Brooklyn Org’s bold evolution from Brooklyn Community Foundation to create a more inclusive and accessible model for community philanthropy. Under Dr. Rainey’s leadership since 2021, Brooklyn Org has surpassed $150 million in total giving and expanded its sector-leading commitments to racial justice and community engagement. (Read full bio)
Afternoon Keynote Speaker: Commissioner Sandra Escamilla-Davies (NYC Department of Youth & Community Development)
Commissioner Sandra Escamilla-Davies serves as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). A visionary social worker, executive leader, and systems strategist with more than 25 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to strengthening the systems, institutions, and communities that support children, youth, and families. (Read full bio)
