This year marks a transformative moment for the National Service-Learning Conference®. We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Points of Light, uniting the National Service-Learning Conference with the Points of Light Conference to create an unprecedented gathering where youth leaders and global changemakers stand side by side as equals.
This partnership reflects a fundamental belief that drives both our organizations: young people are not waiting to lead. They are leading now—mobilizing their peers, strengthening communities, and shaping the future of civic engagement and service.
It’s more than a programming shift. It’s a catalyst for a new civic engagement, one that creates a strong foundation for systemic change. This integration accelerates youth leadership by creating real-time opportunities for students to lead alongside executives, policymakers, and nonprofit innovators. At the same time, it transforms the sector by infusing fresh ideas, energy, and lived experiences into strategies for volunteering and service.
NYLC attendees will experience all the regular programming, youth showcases, and networking they’ve come to enjoy, plus access to Points of Light Conference main stage moments, networking events, and workshops to deepen their engagement and learning.
What’s New in 2026
Intergenerational leadership unlocks the creativity, urgency, and wisdom required to solve complex problems. This integration is a catalyst for a new civic engagement that connects generations, strengthens communities, and advances a healthier democracy.
SLC at the Points of Light Conference
SLC at the Points of Light Conference
"As a first-time attendee, I found the conference to be fantastic. The breakout sessions and workshops were incredibly insightful, many packed with valuable resources."
-2025 Conference Attendee
“The conference showed me that I'm not alone in the work I'm doing, although it can feel that way as the sole person at my school focused on this. It also taught me how accessible service-learning can be when done well."
-2025 Conference Attendee
The National Service-Learning Conference® at Points of Light
Plenary Sessions are where the conference community comes together for inspiration and learning. Plenary Sessions will feature youth emcees, a local welcome, keynote speakers, entertainment, and more! From the opening bell to the closing of the final day, Plenary Sessions are designed to motivate, uplift, and inspire you to action.
Workshops are the heart of the conference, providing skill-building for youth and adults alike. These interactive, engaged learning sessions are designed for a variety of levels and audiences engaged in service-learning. Session topics are selected for breadth and depth, and include service-learning basics, best practices, current and emerging issues, and how to’s.
Lightning talks are fast, intimate, small group sessions – think of them as the professional speed dating rounds of the conference! In 20-minute sessions, presenters share their ideas, projects, and findings with participants, presenting for 10 minutes and allowing for 10 minutes of interaction and conversation. After the 20 minutes are up, participants move tables for two more rounds, giving participants the chance to hear from and interact with up to three different presenters per day.
The Student Showcase highlights high-quality service-learning from across the country, presented by student leaders. Participants will hear how students investigated community needs, planned and prepared, took action, reflected, and demonstrated their work and its impact!
Be part of a special event honoring individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to service and learning in their communities. From innovative projects addressing local challenges to remarkable student achievements, this ceremony showcases the transformative power of service-learning initiatives nationwide. Join us as we recognize and applaud the passion, creativity, and commitment of those making a difference through service.
Each year, the Conference celebrates service with a Day of Service, joining with local partners to give back to the local community. This fun and engaging day will bring Conference participants together to serve, opening with a mini learning session on the service topic and closing with a whole-group reflection.
The Conference is a great place to find valuable services and products to meet your needs. From curricula to technology, you’ll find new ideas from our exhibitors.
Throughout the conference there will be ample opportunity for attendees to come together and meet people from around the world.
Calling all Youth! Don’t miss the evening fun in the youth room! A space designed by and for youth!