Delray Beach Teens Present Policy Solutions to City Leaders Through Hacktivate 2026

Achievement Centers for Children & Families, in partnership with the City of Delray Beach, recently concluded Hacktivate Delray Beach 2026, a youth civic engagement program bringing together 25 local middle and high school students to research and develop policy recommendations addressing some of Delray Beach’s most pressing issues.

Over the course of the program, students worked with city departments and a professional data scientist to analyze real community data related to gun violence, housing instability, domestic violence, youth employment, and equitable outdoor spaces. The week concluded with TED Talk-style presentations delivered directly to community leaders and stakeholders in Downtown Delray Beach.

The initiative is designed to give local teens hands-on experience in data analysis, public speaking, civic leadership, and policy development, while creating real, research-backed solutions for the community. Following the presentations, students will continue the work through service-learning projects and potential legislative proposals tied to their findings, helping place youth voices at the table where real community decisions are made.

“Hacktivate gives local teens the tools and confidence to help shape solutions for their own community.” said Andy Caesar of Achievement Centers for Children & Families.

About Achievement Centers for Children & Families

At Achievement Centers for Children & Families, children are involved in Early Learning (Toddler and Preschool), After School, Teen and Summer Camp programs that help prepare them for academic and social success and inspire them to discover their talents. Families are served through the Family Support and Economic Stabilization services which benefit the community by stabilizing families in crisis; supporting them to serve as the foundation of their child’s growth. Family strengthening services are embedded within the organization’s four core programs of Early Learning, After School, Teen and Summer Camp. Achievement Centers currently serves over 700 local children and families at three locations in Delray Beach; Nancy K. Hurd Campus, Village Academy, and Pine Grove Elementary. For more information, call (561) 266-0003 or visit www.achievementcentersFL.org.