About Us

Since 1985 the Quad Cities Youth Conference has been a unifying force in the community working to accomplish ourmission  to provide youth with the opportunity to enhance decision-making skills which are necessary for living in a socially complex world and to establish contacts with community resources.

Our goals are to:

The Quad Cities Youth Conference is a two-day, bi-state conference geared towards youth in grades 7-12 with approximately 500 students each day of the conference. The first day of the conference is geared toward middle schoolers and the second day for high schoolers. The day includes a keynote speaker, 13 workshops, a community fair and a chance to collaborate with youth from other schools in the Quad Cities and surrounding areas.

2024 Conference Summary

The Quad Cities Youth Conference is a non-profit organization and depends on the generosity of others, especially local employers and volunteer groups. Our planning committee represents a wide variety of QC agencies, businesses, and organizations.

QCYC Planning Committee Employers and Organizations

organizations organizations

Testimonials

“That you can do job shadowing. I didn’t know that was a thing.”
“I learned how to manage money better.”
“Instagram is the most used social media.”
“I liked learning about the difference between a job and a career.”
“How to deal with stress.”
“​I know I am not alone”
“Don’t ever give up.”  
“I learned to be kind to myself.”
“How to make friends. How to be body friendly.”
“I learned how to tell what a healthy relationship is.”
“When getting pulled over, do nothing and wait for the officer to approach.” 
“​Everyone has different emotions than you.”
“​Made me realize many people struggle, not just me.”
“​I matter and I can make a difference.”
“​I learned signs of someone who might be thinking of suicide.”
“​I learned that what's on my phone is there forever.”
“​There are people out there to help you.”
“​We need to reach out to others, even if they are different than me.”
“I believe that the day is very meaningful and students have carried the messages of hope onto others.”
“The workshops are spot on for the issues that teens face today . Every volunteer helps to ensure that all participants are comfortable in attending.”
“The QCYC IS AND CAN BE A LIFE EFFECTING DAY!”

Students were asked to answer yes or no on evaluations.

88% - Connect you to agencies and other adults who can help you with your goals?
88% - Get motivated to do well in school Bond with your school/classmates
83.2% - Understand the value of promoting equality
83.1% - I now will plan ahead when making difficult choices
86.6% - Increase your knowledge and comfort with people of different cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds
87.8% - Feel in control of your life
81.5% - Improve overall self-esteem
94.2% - Have a positive outlook towards the future.