Albany, NY — February 14, 2026 — A group of young leaders from Westchester County is proving that civic engagement has no age limit.
Youth members of the Westchester County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., traveled to Albany alongside their parents to participate in the NYSBPHA Legislative Caucus Weekend, gaining firsthand exposure to how government works and how policy decisions shape their communities. The delegation included approximately 40 young people aged 9-17 and 20 adults, all participating in the chapter’s Civic–Legislative focus area.
Throughout the weekend, the students engaged directly with key political figures, including Majority Senate Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Senator Jamaal Bailey, Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, and Westchester County Executive Kenneth W. Jenkins. These conversations focused on how legislation impacts communities of color, particularly in Westchester County.
One issue stood out among the young advocates: the growing presence of illegal pop-up smoke shops. The students voiced concerns about how these unregulated businesses disproportionately affect communities of color, particularly when located near schools and parks. Their advocacy was reinforced by remarks from Senator Landon C. Dais, who emphasized the importance of early civic engagement and its long-term impact on public service and leadership.
The weekend also included participation in the Youth Leadership Summit, sponsored by the I Will Graduate Organization, where students strengthened their leadership and public speaking skills. In a notable moment, the group had the opportunity to meet Governor Kathy Hochul, further expanding their understanding of state leadership and governance.
But the trip’s impact did not end in Albany.
Following Caucus Weekend, the youth continued their advocacy efforts back home, meeting with Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard and representatives from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management. The discussions centered on the harmful effects of illegal smoke shops on young people, particularly in vulnerable neighborhoods.
Taking action beyond conversation, the group launched a petition calling for tighter regulations and enforcement against illegal smoke shops. To date, the petition has gathered more than 200 signatures. In addition, the youth submitted campaign letters to elected officials to ensure their concerns are heard at every level of government.
In a creative push to inspire their peers, the chapter also produced an original song titled “Power Has No Age: Big Impact. Real Change.”—a message-driven anthem encouraging young people to engage in civic life and advocate for issues that matter in their communities.
Through initiatives like this, the Westchester County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. continues to equip young people with the tools, confidence, and awareness needed to become informed advocates and future leaders.
The organization also extended thanks to Senator Jamaal Bailey, Senator Nathalia Fernandez, Senator Shelley Mayer, and Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow for their continued support of youth civic engagement efforts.
For those inspired by the movement, the message is clear: real change starts with action. Community members are encouraged to follow Jack and Jill Westchester Teens on Instagram to learn more about the initiative and support the ongoing petition.
Media Contact:
Lydia Adegbola, Chapter Editor
Westchester County, New York Chapter – Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated
Phone: 917-604-2124
Email: jjwceditorladegbola@gmail.com
Because as these young leaders have shown—power has no age. Big impact leads to real change.
