As a young coach at MissionFit, I’m constantly learning about youth development, and it has been one of the most eye‑opening parts of my journey as a coach. Recently, one opportunity in particular shifted the way I think about this work. This year, I had the chance to step outside Baltimore and see youth development in a different place, and it changed the way I think about community investment.
A few months ago, I traveled to Philadelphia for the Baltimore Children and Youth Fund’s Learning Lab, where I learned about Black history and saw how Philadelphia is taking intentional steps to create change for its youth. One thing that really stood out to me was learning about the deep history of Black leadership, activism, and community organizing in Philadelphia. Hearing stories about how communities came together to create opportunities, education, and safe spaces for young people made me think about how important youth work really is. It showed me that investing in youth has always been a major part of creating change and strengthening communities.
What stuck with me the most, though, was learning how the city uses revenue from sugary drink taxes to fund youth programs and universal Pre-K. That idea stayed with me because I saw how people were taking money from something that negatively impacts and harms communities and redirecting it into resources that help communities thrive. Turning something unhealthy into opportunities that support and impact thousands of kids throughout the city completely shifted the way I think about community investment and youth development. It pushed me to be more intentional about what I’m teaching and why it matters.
Learning about our history while thinking about our future is essential for young adults as they begin to shape their paths, and it’s something I want to continue bringing into the spaces I lead. What makes this work even more meaningful is that I’m still navigating my own journey as a young adult. At the same time, I have the opportunity to help others navigate their paths. That balance is powerful, and it reminds me every day that this isn’t just something I do, it’s the work I’m committed to pursuing long-term.
— Coach Jordan
