Opening Doors: A Youth Development Summit 2026

Wednesday–Thursday, November 18-19, 2026
NYU Kimmel Center, New York City

Presented by The Door

Young people in New York City need more than programs—they need safe spaces: places and systems where they are seen, supported, and able to grow. Where joy and belonging are real, and where wellbeing and purpose can flourish.

But safety doesn’t exist in isolation. It is shaped by access to mental health care, legal protection, and real economic opportunity—and in this moment, those supports are increasingly fragmented and under strain.

This year’s summit explores what it takes to meet this moment by building a truly connected ecosystem of care—one where every young person can find safety, support, and a pathway forward, when and where they need it.

This year's theme:

Mental Health & Wellbeing → What does emotional safety look like at scale?

Economic Stability → What does financial safety and possibility look like for young people?

Meeting the Moment: Supporting Immigrant Youth → Who gets to feel safe in NYC—and who doesn’t?

Who should attend?
Nonprofit partners, policy advocates, funders, and all changemakers are committed to the well-being of New York City’s young people.

We hope attendees will leave the summit inspired, connected, and equipped with real tools and strategies to apply in their work and communities.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this powerful gathering.

Click here to learn more and register today.

Registration takes less than 5 minutes and gives you preferred access to all sessions and special events.

Together, let’s open the door to a better future for our youth.