Table of Contents
Edu-Family 2026: Welcoming Congressman James Walkinshaw
Emerging Leaders Celebrate Graduation at Amazon Headquarters in Arlington
Cafritz Foundation Joins Record Wakefield High School ELP-I Session
Edu-Futuro Students Visit James Madison University
Parent Support Team Attends Championships for Youth Summit
AmeriCorps Corner: Farewell to Kaitlin Mays-Kinsella
Join Our Team: Edu-Futuro Seeks AmeriCorps Volunteers for Fall 2026
Health & Wellness: How Social Media Is Shaping Teen Attitudes About Tobacco and Nicotine
Edu-Family 2026: Welcoming Congressman James Walkinshaw
As Edu-Family 2026 approaches on Saturday, July 18, at the George Mason University Fairfax Campus, Edu-Futuro is pleased to share new developments that reflect the growing impact of this annual event and the strong community of partners that make Edu-Family possible.
Joining our community of nearly 500 students, parents, volunteers, educators, and partners this year will be a distinguished roster of long-term supporters, along with a special guest whose presence reflects the growing recognition of Edu-Family's impact. We are honored to announce that Congressman James Walkinshaw, U.S. Representative for Virginia's 11th Congressional District, will attend this year's event. His participation highlights the importance of expanding educational opportunity for underserved families, and underscores the growing visibility of Edu-Futuro's mission throughout Northern Virginia and beyond. We are grateful for his support and look forward to welcoming him to the Edu-Family community.
Also joining us are the dedicated partners that have helped Edu-Family grow since its launch in 2021, including George Mason University, University of Virginia, Marymount University, James Madison University, Old Dominion University, Guidehouse, and other members of our Circles of Empowerment. Year after year, these organizations and individuals contribute expertise, volunteers, resources, and mentorship, helping families navigate the path to higher education and career success.
Together, this network of partners, educators, volunteers, and community leaders makes Edu-Family far more than a single event. The gathering serves as a powerful reminder that when families, institutions, and community organizations unite around a shared purpose, opportunities expand and futures change. Whether attending for the first time or returning for another year, Edu-Family participants can expect a day filled with learning, inspiration, and new possibilities.
For more information on Edu-Family, please visit For more information on Edu-Family, please visit www.Edu-Futuro.org, or contact our Manager of Programs, Dulce Oliveros, at managerofprograms@edu-futuro.org
Register for Edu-Family 2026
Parents with children in Middle and High school! We are pleased to invite you to Edu-Family 2026, an exciting day of learning and fun which will take place on July 18th, starting at 9:00 AM at George Mason University's main campus in Fairfax, in the Johnson Building. Don't forget to save the date and be sure to arrive on time to make the most of all the planned activities. We hope to see you and your family!
Emerging Leaders Celebrate Graduation at Amazon Headquarters in Arlington
On Saturday, May 16, 2026, Edu-Futuro proudly celebrated the Class of 2026 graduation of our life-changing Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-II, at the Amazon Jasper building in Arlington, Virginia. The ceremony brought together more than 100 graduating seniors, family members, mentors, Edu-Futuro staff, and AmeriCorps and Amazon volunteers for a morning of recognition, reflection, and inspiration, honoring the extraordinary dedication these young leaders demonstrated throughout a year of college preparation and mentorship.
This year’s cohort of 79 ELP-II graduates were collectively offered a remarkable $9.7 million in scholarships and financial aid, a figure that speaks powerfully to the potential unlocked when students are provided with the guidance and support they need to succeed. Graduates will go on to attend some of the most respected colleges and universities in the region and across the country, including American University, Fordham University, George Mason University, Howard University, James Madison University, Lewis & Clark College, Marymount University, Northern Virginia Community College, Pennsylvania State University, Radford University, Swarthmore College, the Catholic University of America, the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia State University, and Virginia Tech.
ELP-II is a cornerstone of Edu-Futuro’s youth services, providing high school seniors who have completed ELP-I with a year-long series of educational workshops and intensive one-on-one mentoring sessions designed to guide participants through the college admissions, scholarship, and financial aid application processes. Since 2020, the program’s 418 graduates have collectively received more than $52.5 million in scholarship and financial aid offers. This achievement reflects not only the determination and hard work of our students, but also what becomes possible when young people are given the guidance, encouragement, and support they deserve.
“This cohort has been a group of very dedicated, driven, and passionate students,” said AmeriCorps Youth Programs Facilitator, France Tomgambo-Kaye. “It has been so impressive to see how ready they are to take on the world and these next steps. They have been deeply invested in their future education, and because of this, several students have earned acceptance to some of the best universities in the country.”
The graduation ceremony also provided students with a valuable opportunity to connect with mentors, Edu-Futuro staff, Amazon volunteers, and professionals representing a wide range of organizations and career fields. Students came prepared with thoughtful questions about careers, college experiences, and professional pathways, reflecting the confidence and curiosity that ELP-II is designed to foster.
“I watched them ask thoughtful questions, share their passions, and build networks that will hopefully support them throughout higher education and beyond,” France reflected. “I was looking at LinkedIn and saw a student who had connected with our representative from Latinos at Amazon, Alexandra Juárez. Moments like that are so wonderful to see.”
To learn more about ELP-II and Edu-Futuro's free youth programs, please contact Susana Carpio, Youth Programs Team Lead, at youthprograms@edu-futuro.org. Edu-Futuro’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is supported in part by grants from Impact100 DC, the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, and the Marinus and Minna B. Koster Foundation.
Cafritz Foundation Joins Record Wakefield High School ELP-I Session
On April 29, 2026, Edu-Futuro welcomed a representative from the Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation to the first session of the Wakefield High School spring cohort of our Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-I. With more than 40 students in attendance, the session marked what program staff described as the highest turnout Wakefield has ever seen, a milestone that reflects the growing momentum and reach of Edu-Futuro’s youth programming across Northern Virginia.
The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, which has partnered with Edu-Futuro since 2017, is committed to building stronger communities throughout the Washington region through strategic investments in education, community services, the arts and humanities, health, and the environment. Its presence at the opening session of the Wakefield spring cohort reflects a shared belief that every young person, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to the tools and opportunities that make a brighter future possible. The visit also provided an opportunity for foundation representatives to see firsthand the impact of their long-standing investment in Edu-Futuro’s students and families.
The spring session was facilitated by Patrick Edmondson, Youth Programs Specialist, and Stephanie Claure, AmeriCorps Youth Programs Facilitator, who guided students through the opening workshop of a semester filled with opportunities for growth and exploration. ELP-I serves as the foundation of Edu-Futuro’s college-access programming, introducing high school students to the resources, skills, mentorship, and support networks they need to prepare for higher education and build meaningful career pathways. For many participants, the program represents their first structured introduction to the college-going process and the opportunities that a postsecondary education can provide.
“The Cafritz Foundation’s visit served as a meaningful reminder of the community investment that makes Edu-Futuro’s work possible,” said Director of Development, Zach Hoskins. “Their support over the past decade has played a critical role in sustaining our programs and allowing us to serve more students like those at Wakefield year over year. We are so grateful, and look forward to continuing our partnership.”
To learn more about ELP-I and Edu-Futuro's free youth programs, please contact Susana Carpio, Youth Programs Team Lead, at youthprograms@edu-futuro.org.
Edu-Futuro Students Visit James Madison University
On Tuesday, May 5, Edu-Futuro staff, AmeriCorps volunteers, and 98 students traveled to James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia, as part of the Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-I. The campus visit provided students with an opportunity to experience college life firsthand, explore a vibrant university environment, and take a meaningful step toward envisioning their own futures in higher education.
Throughout the day, students toured the campus, visited student spaces, and engaged with university representatives about academics, student life, and the college experience as a whole. Enthusiasm was evident from the start, as students asked thoughtful questions and openly shared reflections on campus life and their educational goals. For many participants, the visit marked their first time setting foot on a four-year university campus.
One of the most memorable moments came from Keyla, a James Madison University student and former ELP participant, who spoke candidly about her educational journey and the scholarship opportunities that helped make college a reality. Hearing from someone who had once stood in their shoes offered students a powerful and relatable perspective while serving as a living reminder of what becomes possible through the ELP program.
“The JMU admissions and tour team was very hospitable and accommodating to our large group,” said Patrick Edmondson, Youth Programs Specialist. “They welcomed us warmly and ensured that students received the full JMU experience. Our group felt genuinely welcomed and supported throughout the visit.”
Edu-Futuro AmeriCorps State Member Ethy Yooilee echoed that sentiment while reflecting on the value of campus visits. “Whether students ultimately choose JMU or another university, gaining firsthand insight into college life -- from walking across campus to sharing a meal in the dining hall alongside current students -- is a special opportunity,” she shared. “My hope is that these experiences help students envision themselves in college and imagine the possibilities that lie ahead.”
Through experiences such as the JMU campus visit, Edu-Futuro continues to help students build confidence, broaden their perspectives, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their educational and career aspirations. For more information about the Emerging Leaders Program, please contact Susana Carpio, Youth Programs Team Lead, at youthprograms@edu-futuro.org.
Parent Support Team Attends Champions for Youth Summit
From Monday, May 4, through Wednesday, May 6, 2026, Edu-Futuro’s Parent Empowerment Services (PES) team had the privilege of attending the Champions for Youth Summit, at the Hyatt Regency at Reston Town Center. Representing Edu-Futuro at this year’s summit were Natalie Gutiérrez, Parent Support Team Lead, and Yeimy Sánchez, Parent Support Specialist, marking the organization’s third consecutive year participating in one of the region’s most influential gatherings of youth health and prevention professionals.
The Champions for Youth Summit brings together grantees, community organizations, and expert speakers to transform ideas into action. With a focus on collaboration and practical learning, the summit addresses tobacco and nicotine use, along with other pressing youth health challenges. Edu-Futuro attended as a proud grantee of the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY), whose support makes possible two cornerstone PES initiatives: the Strengthening Families 10–14 program, and an annual focus group focused on tobacco and nicotine prevention for youth and families across Northern Virginia.
This year’s keynote speakers included an especially distinguished group of leaders and advocates: Arthur C. Brooks, PhD, Harvard professor and bestselling author; Nadine Burke Harris, MD, Founder of the Center for Youth Wellness and former Surgeon General of California; Hamilton Glass, renowned public artist; and Taanvi Arekapudi, youth well-being advocate and bestselling author. Each speaker offered a unique perspective on advancing youth health and substance use prevention, providing the Edu-Futuro team with valuable data, emerging research, and innovative strategies to strengthen programming and better serve local families.
“Events like the Champions for Youth Summit are essential catalyst spaces that allow organizations like Edu-Futuro to recharge and innovate,” said Natalie Gutiérrez, Parent Support Team Lead. “Access to this level of specialized knowledge helps ensure that our programming remains current, effective, and responsive to the needs of our community. Beyond the professional development, the experience serves as a powerful reminder of our core mission: empowering young people to become responsible, conscious, and resilient leaders while ensuring that every family knows support is always within reach.”
For more information about Edu-Futuro’s Parent Empowerment Services (PES), please contact Natalie Gutiérrez, Parent Support Team Lead, at adultprograms@edu-futuro.org.
AmeriCorps Corner: Farewell to Kaitlin Mays-Kinsella
Edu-Futuro’s impact is made possible through the invaluable support of both AmeriCorps State and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers. Our AmeriCorps State cohort plays a critical role in the lives of students and parents by serving as facilitators in the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) and Workforce Development Services (WDS). Meanwhile, AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers lead a variety of capacity-building initiatives, from strengthening internal systems and enhancing data management to developing new curricula for students and parents. Together, these dedicated volunteers help expand Edu-Futuro’s reach and strengthen our ability to serve the community.
This month, we recognize and celebrate the service of Grants Research Specialist VISTA Kaitlin Mays-Kinsella, whose two years of dedication have left a lasting mark on Edu-Futuro’s Development team and the broader mission we share. As Kaitlin concludes her service, we are honored to share a few parting reflections in her own words:
“My name is Kaitlin Mays-Kinsella, and I had the privilege of serving as the Grant Research Specialist VISTA at Edu-Futuro for two years. With six years of nonprofit fundraising experience, I have always been passionate about helping organizations secure the resources needed to advance their missions. At Edu-Futuro, that passion took on special meaning. During my time here, I focused on identifying new funding opportunities to support programs and events, contributed to the growth of the monthly newsletter, and helped build a Corporate Partnership program designed to strengthen Edu-Futuro’s long-term sustainability.
“What made this experience truly special, however, was the community I had the opportunity to serve. I was born and raised in Springfield, Virginia, and graduated from John Lewis High School, so Edu-Futuro’s work has always felt deeply personal. Being able to give back to the neighborhoods that helped shape me -- and seeing the difference that support makes in the lives of students and families --has been one of the greatest honors of my career.
“I am deeply grateful to have worked alongside Director of Development Zachary Hoskins, the Development team, Edu-Futuro’s incredible staff, and my fellow AmeriCorps volunteers. This organization is filled with people who genuinely care about the community and one another, and those lessons and relationships will stay with me for years to come.”
For more information on Edu-Futuro's AmeriCorps VISTA program or AmeriCorps State program, please contact Joy Harvey, AmeriCorps Programs Coordinator, at americorps@edu-futuro.org
Join Our Team: Edu-Futuro Seeks AmeriCorps Volunteers for Fall 2026
Edu-Futuro is pleased to announce that applications are now open for AmeriCorps Volunteers to join our team beginning in Fall 2026. As the organization prepares to welcome a new cohort of dedicated volunteers, we are seeking motivated individuals who are passionate about education, youth empowerment, and creating meaningful opportunities for underserved families across Northern Virginia.
AmeriCorps Volunteers serve at the heart of Edu-Futuro’s mission. Through mentoring and tutoring, volunteers help middle and high school students prepare for college and future careers, while leading workshops focused on leadership, academic success, and STEM for first-generation youth. Volunteers also support families through case management, parent workshops, and community outreach efforts. Additional responsibilities include program development, evaluation, and strengthening the community partnerships that help sustain Edu-Futuro’s work. Each day brings new challenges, new connections, and new opportunities to make a difference.
In exchange for a year of meaningful service, volunteers receive a living allowance, a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of service, federal student loan forbearance, and extensive professional development, training, and networking opportunities. For many former volunteers, service with Edu-Futuro has become a defining chapter that opened doors to careers in education, counseling, social work, and public service.
John Scally, AmeriCorps VISTA Paralegal Research Specialist at Edu-Futuro, captured that experience well: “Serving with Edu-Futuro through AmeriCorps has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. Every day I show up knowing that the work I am doing has a real impact on the students and families in this community. This opportunity has allowed me not only to give back, but also to grow in ways I never expected.”
Edu-Futuro welcomes applications from recent graduates, current seniors, and career changers who are committed to equity and community impact. Bilingual English and Spanish skills are strongly preferred and are required for certain workforce development positions. Candidates should also have evening and weekend availability and reliable access to transportation. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply early. To apply, please complete the interest form at: https://tinyurl.com/4rt869jd
For more information on Edu-Futuro’s AmeriCorps VISTA program or AmeriCorps State program, please contact Joy Harvey, AmeriCorps Programs Coordinator, at americorps@edu-futuro.org.
Health & Wellness
How Social Media Is Shaping Teen Attitudes About Tobacco and Nicotine
For today’s teenagers, social media serves as a primary source of information, entertainment, and connection. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat influence everything from fashion trends to music preferences. Unfortunately, those same platforms have also become powerful channels for promoting tobacco and nicotine products to young audiences.
Unlike traditional advertising, social media marketing often appears in subtle and unexpected ways. A teenager may encounter a video featuring a popular influencer, athlete, or content creator who casually uses a nicotine product during a livestream or short video. Product placement, lifestyle messaging, and viral trends can create the impression that nicotine use is common, harmless, or even desirable.
Many young viewers do not realize that social media content is often carefully designed to influence consumer behavior. Influencers can receive sponsorship payments, free products, advertising revenue, affiliate commissions, and other forms of compensation for featuring products in their content. In some cases, promotional relationships are clearly disclosed. In other cases, commercial messages can be much harder for young audiences to recognize. As a result, what appears to be a personal recommendation may actually be a form of paid marketing.
Public health researchers have raised growing concerns about this trend. A 2024 study by Vogel and colleagues, published in the journal Health Communication, examined exposure to nicotine- and tobacco-related social media content among adolescents and young adults. Researchers found that young people frequently encounter nicotine-related content across multiple platforms, particularly through influencers, celebrities, and peer networks. Exposure often extends beyond direct advertising and includes lifestyle-oriented posts that normalize nicotine use.
Another important study, published by Lee and colleagues in the CDC journal Preventing Chronic Disease in 2023, found that frequent social media use was associated with increased susceptibility to e-cigarette use and a greater likelihood of nicotine initiation among adolescents. Researchers concluded that understanding the relationship between social media exposure and tobacco use remains critical for youth prevention efforts.
Additional evidence continues to emerge. In 2024, researchers from Boston University reported that young people with no previous tobacco use who accessed social media daily faced a significantly greater risk of initiating tobacco use than peers who used social media less frequently. The study also found that engagement with tobacco-related content, including following or interacting with brand accounts, was associated with even greater risk.
Many families assume that tobacco advertising disappeared decades ago. In reality, tobacco and nicotine companies have adapted marketing strategies to meet young people where attention now resides: online. Modern campaigns frequently rely on influencers, user-generated content, entertainment-based messaging, and content designed to blend seamlessly into a teenager’s daily social media experience. Public health organizations, including the World Health Organization, have recently warned about marketing tactics that target youth through social media, influencer promotion, attractive packaging, and lifestyle branding.
Parents and caregivers play an important role in helping young people navigate these messages. Open conversations about advertising, social media influence, and nicotine addiction can help teens recognize when marketing efforts attempt to shape perceptions and behavior. Encouraging critical thinking skills allows students to ask important questions: Who created this content? What message does the creator want viewers to believe? Who benefits when a young person starts using nicotine?
Schools, community organizations, and families also share responsibility for helping young people develop media literacy skills. Recognizing manipulation and understanding advertising strategies can be just as important as understanding the health risks associated with tobacco use.
Social media remains a powerful tool for communication and learning. However, young people deserve the knowledge and support necessary to recognize when online content promotes harmful products. Encouraging critical thinking skills allows students to ask important questions: Who created this content? What message does the creator want viewers to believe? Was compensation involved? Who benefits when a young person starts using nicotine?
Edu-Futuro’s Strengthening Families 10-14 Program, which helps teens to reduce such risky behaviors as tobacco use and vaping, is sponsored in part by a generous grant from the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY), empowering Virginia's youth to make healthy choices by promoting active, nutritious and tobacco-free living.