TeenPact Back to DC 2022

Back to DC, the first alumni program TeenPact developed, concluded this year on September 19, 2022.

This Alumni Event is designed to provide students with world-class leadership and political training, while exposing them to the sights and sounds of our nation’s capital. One student explains, “My time at Back to DC really showed me that no matter what age you are, you can change the world.” 

Back to DC brings like-minded teens from all around the country onto Capitol Hill and takes them through the halls of power, providing opportunities to brush shoulders with great leaders, visit historical landmarks, and learn how to make their own impact. 

Through TeenPact’s partnership with the Leadership Institute, students receive top-notch training in political philosophy, activism, and campaigning. Then, as they each participate in running an energetic mock presidential campaign, participants put these newly learned principles into practice. 

Tim Goeglein, Vice President of External and Government Relations for Focus on the Family, related that this was his 22nd time to speak to TeenPacters and that he always thoroughly enjoys his time with these special young people. 

Another speaker, Jeremiah Lorrig, who serves as the Deputy Director of Generation Joshua, explained to TeenPact Alumni what Gen J is about–helping young people make a difference in campaigns that matter.

In addition to these educational elements, TeenPact leaders and parent chaperones take Students on a special monument tour, culminating with worship in the heart of the city at the Lincoln Memorial.

Teens who attended this year’s Back to DC share the following feedback about their experiences:

• “Back to DC has taught me to better appreciate the fact that we do have a capital that is open to the public. Also, we need to take the opportunity to learn more and more about our country. We are so blessed that the Lord has put us here for such a time as this.”
• “I have learned about the practical tactics of campaigning in the real world.”
• “I learned that the Lord can work through anyone, anywhere! I saw The Lord work through so many people this week and it inspired me!! I learned to have more patience and to see the good in everything!!”
• “Attending Back to DC made my faith stronger.”
• “This week my life was mostly impacted by friendships and experiences. I learned some of the inside details of how campaigns work that I know I will use in the future.”
• “I have made such good friendships with so many of the people here. I loved how it was a little smaller group so that you could get to know people so much better than at some of the bigger events such as NatCon. The speakers were soooo amazing!!! I’ve LOVED this event.”
• “Being at this event changed my perspective on so many things–both spiritually and just on my views of life.”
• “I have enjoyed the friends I made here and the communication skills I learned.”
• “I really learned to trust God through the hard times. While we may sometimes think that we know God’s plan for our lives, sometimes it is our selfish desires that take the reins. In Psalms, it says that God’s word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. God does not give us a floodlight to see his whole plan, but rather just a lamp to our feet. I learned to trust God right now. I don’t need to know later, I need to know now.”
• “During this time, I refocused my life to Christ.”
• “I have loved touring D.C., as well as growing closer in my walk with The Lord.”
• “It showed me who to trust and how communication is key when leading.”
• “It has been a really good time for fellowship with other believers and learning about politics.”
• “Seeing the Holocaust Museum was probably the singular most impactful moment of the trip.”
• “It has helped me grow in my faith as well as giving me great experiences exploring D.C.”
• “Another impact was simply standing in D.C.– It was inspiring. After visiting, I truly believe every American should come see this.”
• “It’s expanded my knowledge, as well as created a new sense of confidence I now have. It has helped me to love my God and country unashamed.”
• “Being at Back to DC showed me that there are other young Christians ‘out there’ who are willing to follow God no matter what.”
• “This week has been so impactful in my life, and I am so grateful for it.”
• “It has taught me that in everything, I must trust, praise, and thank God in all I do.”

One parent chaperone relates, “I enjoyed watching the students show so much interest, respectfulness, unity, and bonding while making new friendships. It’s been great getting to know the other chaperones and the great staff/interns. Worship has been amazing. Being with these students this week gives me hope for our future more so than ever.”

Caleb Jennings, Assistant Program Director for 2022 Back to DC, shares his reflections about this year’s event. “Back to DC 2022 was an incredibly powerful event. Whether we were touring the city, worshiping at the Lincoln Memorial, or learning about how to run a campaign well, Jesus was glorified! I actively saw Students growing to understand the political process, engage the culture, value their liberty, and defend the Christian faith. More importantly than anything, I witnessed many Students inspired in their relationship with Christ and developing a passion to follow Him! This is the reason I do what I do, to see lives turned towards God!”

Thank you to the Leadership Institute for their partnership with TeenPact Leadership Schools by graciously sharing their wonderful facility and providing excellent speakers.