ECYP develops the next generation of leaders who challenge hate, build bridges, and create lasting change.
At the Elijah Cummings Youth Program, we believe young people thrive when given the chance to lead with purpose, connect across differences, and experience the world beyond their neighborhoods. With your support, ECYP students participate in workshops, field trips, and immersive experiences throughout the Baltimore-Washington region—meeting elected officials, community leaders, and policy experts, exploring new cultures, and gaining the tools to become confident, empathetic leaders.
ECYP students also walk the paths of history in the American South and Eastern Europe, exploring the intertwined stories of Black and Jewish communities. These journeys give students a deeper understanding of history, culture, and resilience, helping them develop the perspective, empathy, and skills necessary to become effective, thoughtful leaders and ambassadors for social justice.
In today’s world of growing division, preparing students to stand up against hate, lead with courage, and seek common ground is not optional—it is essential. ECYP equips students to navigate different perspectives, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued, and fostering understanding across diverse communities.
During her graduation speech, Kare Coley, Class of 2024, said:
“Many of us never had the chance to meet the late Congressman Elijah Cummings, yet I hope and believe he lives in us—in every meeting we hold, every stereotype we challenge, every difficult conversation we have, every story we share, and every bridge we build.”
Your support ensures that ECYP fellows have access to the resources and experiences they need to grow into leaders who carry forward Congressman Cummings’ legacy of courage, compassion, and connection.
Donate today to empower students to become ambassadors for peace, social justice, and cross-cultural understanding. Your gift changes lives. Your gift builds bridges. Your gift shapes the future.
Join us. Give now and help ECYP students rise as the leaders our communities need.