Congress 2024

TeenPact Congress 2024: Shaping Future Leaders Through Hands-On Experience

Imagine stepping into the shoes of a U.S. Senator, Representative, Lobbyist, or Reporter. That’s exactly what students do at TeenPact Congress 2024, held from August 4-9 in Tallahassee, Florida. This event is not just about learning; it’s about experiencing what it takes to impact policy and culture for Christ in a mock legislature environment.

For years, TeenPact students have raved about the TeenPact Legislature portion of our State Class program With this excitement in mind, we created TeenPact Congress, a national-scale event designed to give students an even deeper dive into the legislative process. 

Living the Legislative Process: A Week of Immersive Learning

During this event, students don’t just read about the legislative process—they live it. From the opening session to sine die, participants experience the thrill and challenge of being U.S. TeenPact Senators, Representatives, Lobbyists, and Reporters. 

One student reflects, “I grew closer to God and learned a lot about how the real Congress works.” Another shares, “This experience has shown me that people are willing to express their opinions but in a respectful, Christ-like way.” These insights highlight the profound impact that TeenPact Congress has on both personal faith and understanding of the legislative process. 

As they walk through the legislative process, students have the opportunity to sponsor bills, participate in committee meetings, and engage with lobbyists. Debating and amending bills on the floors of the Florida House and Senate Chambers offers an authentic taste of real-world politics. For those with an interest in media, the Reporter Track provides a front-row seat to press conferences and interviews, allowing them to report on their findings in real time.

Alexandra Purdy, who participated as a journalist at Congress in 2023, explains, “Congress has impacted my life in that it has helped me realize that I want to go into political journalism! I am so thankful for the growth I’ve had in my walk with Christ, for all the friendships I’ve made, and all that I have learned.”

Beyond the Capitol: Balancing Intensive Learning with Spiritual Reflection

But Congress isn’t just about the heat of legislative battles. After intense days at the capitol, students return to camp for corporate worship and fellowship, where they find spiritual renewal and connection with other teens. The competition of Ultimate Frisbee brings attendees together in friendly rivalry, while TeenPact Rendezvous provides space for spiritual conversation and growth.

A young man who participated shares, “[TeenPact’s Congress] event has helped me refocus my priorities and grow in public speaking as well as in my faith.” A young lady adds, “I saw that I can push myself and do things I never thought I would.” These activities, combined with the legislative experience, create a well-rounded week that leaves a lasting impression on every participant.

Guiding Principles: Vision, Growth, and Impact

The vision behind TeenPact Congress is simple yet profound: to train students to impact policy and culture for Christ. Brent Vastbinder, Program Director, explains, “Our goal is to equip young people with the communication, critical thinking, and practical skills they need to engage in the legislative process from a biblical worldview. We want them to leave this event confident that they can make a genuine impact in the culture for Christ.”  Selah Mallory, Administrative Director, adds, “Watching students grow throughout the week is incredible. They come in with curiosity and leave with a deeper understanding of both their faith and the workings of our government.” Bob Chambers, Event Director, emphasizes, “Congress provided the opportunity to sow so much seed about the depth of God’s love that was demonstrated in the story of the Prodigal, a clear picture of the Gospel. The success of this event is measured by the transformation we see in the students. We’re excited to see how these experiences will shape their futures and the impact they will have on their communities and beyond.”

As the week draws to a close, students leave with more than just memories—they leave with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. “My experience at Congress strengthened my faith and caused me to grow emotionally and mentally,” says one student. Another reflects, “I have grown in confidence by having to jump into some of the reporting activities that I was not as comfortable with, like the press conferences. It also has helped me desire to stay more up to date on current policy to be better informed on issues discussed in bills.”

Future Impact: TeenPact Congress and the Leaders of Tomorrow

As we look ahead to future TeenPact Congress events, we are excited to see how God will continue to use this experience to shape the lives of young leaders. Whether a teen is interested in politics, media, or simply growing in his or her faith, TeenPact Congress offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference.

Many thanks to the leaders, the volunteer chaperones, and the donors! All are necessary to make TeenPact Congress possible!