Seeds of Change (SOC) is an annual youth conference for Bergen County high school students. The goal of the SOC is to provide a positive youth development experience while educating participants on various topics which may include cultural humility, leadership, equity, tolerance, mental health, substance misuse, and action planning.
To help us prepare and provide your district with materials needed for board approval and transportation planning, please complete our short Seeds of Change Interest Form
We kindly ask that you also share this opportunity with the youth you may know. Bergen county schools may bring up to 10 students; if additional space becomes available, schools may be invited to include more attendees.
For more information, please see the attached flyer or feel free to contact us directly:
- Asia Goode – agoode@cafsnj.org | (201) 740-7095
- Angelica Rodriguez – anrodriguez@cafsnj.org | (201) 740-7099
Save The Date
Friday, October 24, 2025
Our annual Seeds of Change Youth Leadership Conference, scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025, at Felician University’s Lodi Campus.
This conference is designed to empower high school youth (Grades 9–12) across Bergen County by offering leadership development opportunities and engaging them in meaningful conversations around youth substance misuse prevention. Students will participate in keynote sessions, interactive workshops, and team-building activities while earning community service hours for their involvement.
Event Details:
Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Felician University – Lodi Campus
262 South Main Street, Lodi, NJ 07644
Target Audience: Bergen County High School Students (Grades 9–12)

Agenda
Arrival & Check-in | 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM |
Welcome | 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM |
Icebreaker | 9:30 AM - 9:40 AM |
Keynotes Speaker | 9:45 AM - 10:30 AM |
Workshop 1 (Brain Functions in Emotions | 10:35 AM - 11:15 AM |
Brain Break (3 Poses, Match with Partner) | 11:20 AM - 11:25 AM |
Workshop 2 (Coping with Emotions) | 11:30 AM - 12:10 PM |
Action Plans (How Can You Promote Wellness in Your Schools?) | 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM |
Lunch (Grab & Go OR Stay & Eat) | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM |