Strengthening Leadership and Legacy: Paterson Youth Council Visits D.C.

Watch our videos of the trip – Day 1 and Day 2

View D.C. Trip photos

On May 14 and 15, our Paterson Youth Council (PYC) — a leadership development program for Paterson teens — traveled to Washington, D.C. for a two-day civic immersive experience. Comprised of young people who are passionate about making a difference in their community, our PYC offers students the chance to build leadership skills, engage in community service, and learn firsthand how government works. This trip to the nation’s capital certainly brought those lessons to life!

The group departed early Wednesday morning, meeting at NJCDC’s headquarters on Spruce Street before boarding a bus to D.C. Upon arrival at D.C.’s Union Station, the students were welcomed by Amtrak staff and treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic terminal, which opened in 1908 and is one of our country’s busiest transportation hubs. After lunch, they traveled to Arlington National Cemetery, where they experienced a live-narrated tram tour and reflected on the service and sacrifice of American veterans. There, the teens also learned how to do a proper salute. Briana, a junior from Paterson’s International High School, called this her top destination of the trip, as she “got to appreciate those who did so much for our country.”

Later that afternoon, the group headed to Georgetown to explore the historic neighborhood and enjoy dinner together before checking in at their hotel to rest for the next day.

Thursday began with breakfast and a visit to Capitol Hill. On the steps of the U.S. Capitol, they were joined by Congresswoman Nellie Pou, who was born and raised in Paterson. Addressing our youth delegation, Congresswoman Pou reminded them, “Something that no one can ever take away from you is the power of your vote and the power of your voice.” This was especially meaningful to PYC member Chearish, a senior at JFK High School, who noted, “One of the moments that will always stick with me is when Congresswoman Pou mentioned she went to JFK. It made me think I could also do something big, it doesn’t matter where I came from and where I study.”

Our teens then participated in a guided tour of the Capitol Building, gaining insight into how laws are made and how democracy functions at the federal level. The group then took a short stroll to the Library of Congress to tour its iconic spaces and exhibits.

That afternoon, our PYC went to the National Mall to see several of the city’s most powerful memorials: the World War II Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. Each stop offered a moment to reflect on justice, leadership, and the people who have shaped our nation’s path forward. PYC member Mia Alvarez said, “Getting to actually go to Washington, D.C. and its many memorials had a profound impact on me. It gave me a deeper appreciation for everything and everyone that came before us.”

By the time the group returned to Paterson that evening, they had not only explored the landmarks of American democracy — they had also deepened their own sense of civic identity and responsibility. The experience was a powerful reminder that leadership starts with awareness, action, and the belief that young people can — and do — make a difference.

Day 1

Day 2