The past few days we have been busy with the Freedom 250: Youth in the Political Process Kalamazoo cohort. Through this IVLP program, part of the biggest ever, celebrating the country’s 250th anniversary - we welcomed impressive young leaders from Ghana, Lebanon, Mexico and South Africa to Kalamazoo, introducing them to election administration and operational integrity, coalition building in complex political environments, and youth civic engagement and leadership.
Arriving from Washington, D.C. late on Friday night, June 26th, the cohort spent the weekend exploring and acclimating to the Kalamazoo area, with drinks, music and food at Dabney & Co. After settling in, they attended the 2026 Caribbean Festival, enjoyed a home hospitality visit with Susan and David Thoms, and experienced Michigan beyond Kalamazoo with a trip to South Haven. There, they enjoyed time on the water, though the lake was too cold to brave a swim!
On Monday, June 29th, meetings began in full swing, starting the day at Michigan’s 41st District Service Office. There they met with staff and State Representative Julie Rogers. We discussed the legislative process at the state level, the role of elected officials in responding to constituent needs, and how policymakers balance competing priorities in complex political environments.
After this engaging conversation, we headed to the Vine Neighborhood Association, where Steve Walsh shared how neighborhood associations strengthen community, give platforms to youth, and improve the quality of life for the residents of their neighborhood. They ended the day with a lively meet and greet at the Hub, where they had the opportunity to network with local leaders and residents.
On Tuesday, June 30th, the cohort learned all about elections. They began the day by meeting with Meredith Place and John Curran at the Kalamazoo County Clerk’s Office, where they gained a better understanding of how elections are administered at the local level, as well as the Clerk’s role in voter registration, ballot preparations, election certification and public trust. They were even able to see what the election equipment looks like. This visit prepared them well for their next meeting with Nathan Ekola from the City of Kalamazoo, who offered insights into recruiting and training election workers and the practical realities of election day operations.
As their time in Kalamazoo comes to a close and they continue to the next part of their program, we are inspired by their leadership and dedication to advancing communities where all people can thrive. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to welcome this group to the Kalamazoo area and connect them to local leaders and organizations.
A special thank you to the 41st District Service Office, Vine Neighborhood Association, the Kalamazoo County Clerk’s Office, and the City of Kalamazoo. A special thank you to hospitality hosts Susan and David Thoms, and everyone who joined the meet and greet, for helping make this experience so meaningful for the cohort and for our community.