In a moment calling for bold vision, servant leadership, and joy,
let’s come together for our children!
The American Youth Policy Forum, powered by CDF, is a two-day convening in the nation’s capital that explores the impact of policy and politics on children, youth, and families. Initiated in 2023 (as Child Well-Being in America: A National Policy Forum), the event aligns hundreds of child advocates, Congressional and Administration staff, researchers, policymakers, and young people in analysis and strategy. Together we discuss how legislation can better serve young people, especially those marginalized by systemic inequities.
On November 5-6, 2025, with the theme “Building Beloved Community,” AYPF is seeding a future-facing vision of children’s policy by convening leading voices in philanthropy, the academy, and community to frame the current moment and dream beyond.
Registration is open to all leaders interested in collaborating to serving young people by advancing public policy. Join us!
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library
901 G St NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
November 5-6, 2025
*One highlight of AYPF will be the NATIONAL CELEBRATION OF JOY on the evening of November 5at The Schuyler Ballroom. See details at the bottom of this page below to join the celebration!
Confirmed Speakers
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Richard E. Besser, MD
President and CEO, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Learn More about Richard E. Besser, MD -
John H. Jackson
President and CEO, Schott Foundation for Public Education
Learn More about John H. Jackson -
Lisa M. Lawson
President & CEO, Annie E. Casey Foundation and Author, “Thrive”
Learn More about Lisa M. Lawson -
Cristina Jiménez Moreta
Co-founder, United We Dream and Best-selling Author, “Dreaming of Home”
Learn More about Cristina Jiménez Moreta -
Kathryn E. Wiley, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership & Policy Studies; Howard University
Learn More about Kathryn E. Wiley, Ph.D. -
John A. Williams, III, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Urban Education; Texas A & M University
Learn More about John A. Williams, III, Ph.D.
Join us for A National Celebration of Joy.
Following day one of the American Youth Policy Forum, powered by Children’s Defense Fund, changemakers, advocates, and community leaders will gather to celebrate the movement for child well-being and honor the contributions of national leaders working to ensure dignity, hope, and joy for young people across America.
Learn More
Become a Sponsor!
Learn about American Youth Policy Forum sponsorship opportunities and register as a sponsor below.
Register as a Sponsor