Agents of Change

Agents of Change Community Ambassadorship Program Launches in St. Louis

On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Cornerstone Changemakers proudly launched the very first cohort of the Agents of Change Community Ambassadorship Program (ACCAP) at St. Louis Community College–Florissant Valley. This groundbreaking initiative brings together youth from across the region for eight weeks of leadership training, personal growth, and community impact.

From the moment students arrived, the energy in the room was electric. Youth leaders were greeted with breakfast, community, and the promise of a transformative journey ahead. Together, they embarked on the first step of becoming tomorrow’s leaders—equipped, encouraged, exposed, and elevated to take their place as changemakers in St. Louis.

Why ACCAP Matters

ACCAP was designed to provide young people ages 12–17 with the tools they need to thrive as leaders—in school, in their communities, and in their personal lives. Through interactive workshops, breakout sessions, and mentorship, students will gain critical skills in areas like:

• Living with intention and purpose

• Building emotional intelligence and prioritizing mental wellness

• Discovering their unique leadership style

• Exploring financial literacy and civic engagement

Beyond the skills, ACCAP offers something just as important: community. Each Saturday, students will connect with peers, facilitators, and local leaders who believe in their potential and are committed to seeing them succeed.

Launch Day Highlights

The first session set the tone for the weeks ahead. Facilitators led meaningful discussions, encouraged students to share their voices, and created space for authentic connection. Parents and volunteers also played a vital role, ensuring everything ran smoothly and reminding participants that they are not alone in their journey.

Despite a few logistical challenges with space, the day was a resounding success. Students showed resilience, engagement, and excitement to return for Week 2. Their energy is proof that the future of St. Louis is bright when youth are given the opportunity to lead.

Looking Ahead

Over the next eight weeks, ACCAP participants will continue to grow as ambassadors of change. The program will culminate in a formal Pinning Ceremony on November 8, 2025, where each student will be recognized for their dedication and leadership. Families, community partners, and local leaders will gather to celebrate these young voices and their commitment to making a difference.

A Word of Gratitude

Cornerstone Changemakers extends heartfelt thanks to St. Louis Community College–Florissant Valley for hosting us, to our dedicated facilitators and volunteers for their leadership, and to the parents who trust us with their youth.

We are especially proud to welcome American Family Insurance and the Alexia Wilkins Agency as our newest program sponsor. Their support helps ensure that young leaders in our community have access to resources and opportunities that will empower them for years to come.

Most of all, we thank the students—the first cohort of ACCAP—for showing up with open minds and hearts ready to grow. This is just the beginning. The seeds of change have been planted, and we can’t wait to see how these young ambassadors will lead their schools, families, and communities into a brighter future.