10/14/2026
On Tuesday evening, Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) hosted a dynamic and engaging Leadership & Candidate Forum, bringing together students, parents, and local candidates for meaningful conversation and civic engagement.
Candidates representing the Gilroy Unified School District, Gavilan College, and the City of Gilroy joined nearly 50 attendees for a youth-led speed forum designed and facilitated by students from Gilroy High School. Throughout the evening, candidates rotated through tables where students and parents had the opportunity to ask questions, share perspectives, and engage in thoughtful discussions about issues important to our community.
The event was guided by an incredible team of youth advocates and community leaders, including Adriana Flores, Gilroy High School Academic Counselor and YIP Lead; Lupita Andrade, Vice President of the Latino Family Fund Gilroy High School Academic Counselor, Francisca Garcia ,Ascencion Solorsano Middle School Counselor, YIP Chair and Martha Martinez, LFF Board Chair and co-facilitator.
The energy in the room was inspiring. Students and candidates were highly engaged, creating authentic conversations that encouraged connection and understanding. Most importantly, students left feeling empowered and confident in their ability to approach candidates, ask questions, and make their voices heard.
A special thank you to our student leaders, candidates, mentors, families, and partners for helping create an evening that demonstrated the power of youth leadership and civic participation. The future is bright when young people are given a seat at the table.
