Level Up at Matt Griffin: A Day of Skills, Growth, and Opportunity
Last updated: August 22, 2025, at 11:20 a.m. PT
Originally published: August 22, 2025, at 8:26 a.m. PT
On August 8, the Matt Griffin Y was bursting with energy as nearly 150 youth came together for the Social Impact Center’s annual Youth Empowerment Conference: Level Up. From the resource fair to workshops, the excitement filled every corner of the building, and the parking lot!
Level Up is more than just a conference. It’s a day designed to ignite potential, build real-world skills, and connect young people with opportunities that empower them to become changemakers in their communities.
By the Numbers
147 youth participated
65 resource fair vendors attended (educators, employers, and service providers)
90 volunteers supported the event, including board members, staff, and community partners
8 life skills workshops equipped youth with practical tools and inspiration
3 dedicated sponsors, foundry10, Commerce Bank of Washington, and BNBuilders made the day possible
Highlights from the Day
The conference featured a dynamic mix of workshops and resources that sparked growth, confidence, and connection for every participant. Workshops ranged from personal development to leadership skills, while the resource fair connected youth directly with employers, educators, and service providers.
But the real impact was seen in the stories:
One young person, usually anxious in group settings, spent the full hour of the “The World is Yours” workshop actively engaged and later shared how they realized they weren’t alone in their feelings.
Two siblings left inspired to use their Y memberships more often and stay active in their community.
A participant used the Department of Licensing booth to achieve a major milestone—getting her ID—while also helping her mom secure hers. She practiced resume skills and even signed up for a new debit card account.
Another youth, overcame her anxiety to connect with every vendor at the resource fair, walking away with culturally relevant resources, confidence, and a gift card that meant a lot to her.
Together, dedicated Y staff and community partners created a day that left youth more prepared, more confident, and more connected. The skills, connections, and confidence gained here will ripple out into schools, families, and communities for years to come.
Learn more about Level Up and how you can get involved >>