Reflecting on the 2026 Champions for Youth Summit
July 8, 2026
For three inspiring days this May, prevention professionals, educators, healthcare leaders, nonprofit organizations, policymakers, and youth advocates from across the Commonwealth came together at the 2026 Champions for Youth Summit to learn, connect, and strengthen our shared commitment to Virginia's youth.
Hosted by Prevention Connections and the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth, this year's Summit served as a powerful reminder that meaningful change happens when people unite around a common purpose: helping young people live healthier, brighter lives.
A Celebration of Collaboration and Leadership
Throughout the Summit, attendees explored innovative, evidence-based approaches to supporting youth and young adults. Conversations focused on some of the most pressing issues facing communities today, including substance use prevention, mental health, tobacco and nicotine use, nutrition, physical activity, and overall well-being.
The energy throughout the event reflected a deep commitment to collaboration. Participants shared promising practices, exchanged ideas, and built connections that will continue long after the Summit concluded.
From engaging breakout sessions to meaningful networking opportunities, the 2026 Champions for Youth Summit reinforced the importance of working together to create environments where youth can thrive.
Inspiring Voices, Lasting Impact
This year's featured speakers challenged attendees to think differently, lead boldly, and remain focused on the people at the center of our work.
Harvard professor and bestselling author Arthur C. Brooks shared insights on finding purpose and meaning, encouraging attendees to reflect on how personal fulfillment and leadership intersect.
Youth advocate and bestselling author Taanvi Arekapudi reminded us of the importance of authentic youth engagement, demonstrating the transformative impact that young people can have when they are empowered as true partners in shaping solutions.
Dr. Caree J. Cotwright brought together science, policy, and creativity in a compelling discussion about nutrition, health, and the power of innovative approaches to community well-being.
Together, these speakers offered valuable perspectives that will continue to influence and inspire prevention efforts across Virginia.
Advancing a Healthier Virginia
One of the most significant moments of the Summit was the release of the updated 2026 Action Plan for a Healthy Virginia.
Originally developed through years of research and collaboration among Virginia's leading experts in weight-related health, the Action Plan was refreshed in 2026 to reflect the latest evidence and best practices in promoting healthy weight and overall well-being.
The Action Plan serves as a practical resource for individuals and organizations seeking to improve health outcomes in their communities. It outlines strategies that support healthy behaviors, including:
- Supporting breastfeeding
- Eating more fruits and vegetables
- Reducing ultra-processed food intake
- Moving more
- Decreasing screen time
- Getting enough sleep
- Practicing mindfulness to reduce stress
- Limiting sugar-sweetened beverages
Whether you are a parent, educator, healthcare provider, faith community leader, employer, or policymaker, the Action Plan provides actionable guidance to help create healthier environments for youth and families across Virginia.
Looking Ahead
While the 2026 Champions for Youth Summit has come to a close, the work continues.
The connections formed, ideas shared, and commitments made during the Summit will help drive progress in communities throughout the Commonwealth in the months and years ahead. Prevention Connections is grateful to every attendee, speaker, sponsor, partner, and volunteer who contributed to the success of this year's event.
Together, we are building momentum toward a healthier future for Virginia's youth.
We look forward to continuing this important work and reconnecting with many of you at the next Champions for Youth Summit.
Turn Inspiration into Action
Take the next step with the 2026 Action Plan for a Healthy Virginia—a practical guide filled with evidence-based strategies to help create healthier environments for youth and families.