Youth Town Hall Featuring Deep East Texas Youth Leaders & Elected Officials

Youth Town Hall brought to you by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Deep East Texas and the Texas Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs
Teens from across Deep East Texas will meet with elected officials and take part in
leadership development and community knowledge building by engaging in a Q&A
centered around issues that impact Deep East Texas Youth.
What: Youth Town Hall brings together young leaders from across Deep East Texas with
community advocates, educators, and elected officials for a powerful, youth-led
conversation about issues that matter most to the next generation. Hosted by the Boys &
Girls Club of Deep East Texas, this inaugural event creates a welcoming space where youth
voices are centered, respected, and amplified.
Youth participants will engage directly with local and regional representatives, school
leaders, and public officials in meaningful dialogue focused on civic engagement,
leadership, and community impact. By connecting young people with decision-makers and
role models, the Youth Town Hall aims to inspire confidence, encourage active
participation, and strengthen collaboration across Deep East Texas, building a stronger
future led by informed, empowered youth.
Cassie T., the 2026 Youth of the Year for BGCDET, will represent the host organization. Local
leaders and elected officials will also engage with candidates and celebrate their
achievements.
When: April 18th 2026, 11:00am-1pm
Where: The Fredonia Hotel- 200 N Fredonia Street, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961
Agenda:
10:00am Sound/Equipment Check
10:45am Doors open, All participants to meet at stage
11:00am Welcome by Ja’Brandon Chatman (BGCDET) Introduction of Sheila Youngblood
(CEO BGCDET)
11:05am Organizational Impact Update by Sheila Youngblood (CEO BGCDET)
11:10 am Food to be served at this time
11:12am Cassie Tieman (BGCDET YOY) Introduction of Moderator Vincent Harding (CEO TX
Alliance)
11:15am Moderator Vincent Harding Begins Town Hall by doing an introduction of
participants
12:00pm Moderator Vincent Harding closes with a Thank you and give a brief overview of
the work of the TX Alliance/TX Summit/YOY
12:15pm Vincent Harding to bring Ja’Brandon Back to the Stage to close out the event and
thank guests for attending
12:30pm End of Show
Media Contacts
Ja’Brandon Chatman
936-221-4007 or chatmanj@bgcdet.org