By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
A powerful opportunity for young people and families to connect with resources, mentors, and inspiration is coming to Woodbridge this winter.
Tomorrow’s Cultivating Youth Inc. will host the free “You Hold the Key to Your Success” Youth Expo on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at Rippon Middle School, bringing together nonprofits, educators, community leaders, and service providers for a full day focused on education, leadership, wellness, and opportunity.
Registration is free for attendees, and vendor tables are also available at no cost for organizations that serve youth and families.
Organizers say the event was created in response to growing concerns seen in communities across the country, including youth crime, chronic absenteeism, and youth mental health challenges. The goal is proactive engagement, early access to resources, and positive role modeling.
“Our youth are the key to our future,” shared representatives from Tomorrow’s Cultivating Youth Inc. “It is our responsibility to ensure they have the tools, guidance, and encouragement to make choices that lead to success and fulfillment. The Youth Expo is a space where they can see that opportunities exist and that their community is invested in them.”
What Youth Can Expect
Throughout the day, students and families will have the opportunity to:
* Explore and connect with local nonprofits, colleges, and career programs.
* Discover volunteer and leadership opportunities.
* Participate in interactive workshops and hands-on activities.
* Learn about scholarships, internships, and community resources.
* Meet mentors and community role models.
The expo is designed to encourage positive decision-making, strengthen self-confidence, and expose youth to pathways for academic, personal, and professional growth.
Opportunities for Community Organizations
Tomorrow’s Cultivating Youth Inc. is currently seeking nonprofit organizations, youth-serving agencies, educators, and community partners to participate as exhibitors. Organizations are encouraged to bring informational materials, interactive displays, and giveaways to create an engaging experience for attendees.
Participating organizations benefit from:
* Sharing their mission and programs directly with youth and families
* Networking with other organizations committed to youth empowerment
* Building relationships with potential volunteers, participants, and supporters
* Strengthening community collaboration and visibility
There is no fee to participate as a vendor.
Event Details
Event: You Hold the Key to Your Success Youth Expo
Date: Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration begins at 9 a.m.
Location: Rippon Middle School, 15101 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge
Cost: Free for attendees and participating organizations
Organizations interested in reserving a table or learning more are encouraged to contact:
* Email: tcy@tcyouth2017.org
* Phone: 703-853-9970, Traci Ali, President
* Phone: 240-350-7488, Leah Rawlings, Co-Chair
The reservation deadline is Jan. 15, 2026.
Events like this reflect the strength of community partnerships and the shared commitment to supporting the next generation. When young people see local leaders, organizations, and mentors investing in their success, it builds confidence, connection, and possibility.
Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living and the CEO of Imagine, a destination marketing agency focused on strengthening communities through storytelling, economic development, and local engagement. A longtime community advocate and nonprofit leader, Rebecca is passionate about highlighting the people, organizations, and initiatives that make Prince William County a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
