Richfield Leaders Unite at Pathways & Possibilities Forum

Community leaders, educators and advocates came together recently at the Pathways & Possibilities Forum, a collaborative event hosted by the Beacons Network in partnership with Richfield Public Schools and other local organizations. Held at the Richfield Municipal Center, the event focused on shaping a future where all young people in Richfield have access to the opportunities, support and resources they need to thrive.

The forum brought together a diverse group of leaders, including city officials, school administrators, youth development professionals, nonprofit organizations, Community Education and health department staff. Their discussions centered around a crucial question: What do we want Richfield to look like in five years, and how can we work together to make it happen?

Key priorities that emerged from the conversation included:

• Elevating youth voices—ensuring students have a say in the programs and support systems created for them.
• Expanding visibility of the resources already available in Richfield.
• Removing barriers to education, and creating more career pathways and community involvement.
• Providing real-world experiences through internships, job shadowing and leadership opportunities.
• Ensuring every child in Richfield has a trusted adult for mentorship and guidance.
• Supporting families so they can better support their children.
• Creating youth advisory groups to involve young people in decision-making at all levels.

With these priorities in mind, attendees discussed actionable solutions, forged new partnerships and laid the groundwork for collaborative efforts to address these needs. The insights gathered during the event will also inform a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant proposal to expand afterschool and enrichment programs for local students.

A Growing Need for Afterschool & Expanded Learning Programs

The forum highlighted a critical issue: the lack of accessible, high-quality afterschool programs in Minnesota. According to Ignite Afterschool and the Minnesota Afterschool Advance, for every child enrolled in an afterschool program, three more are waiting for access. Research consistently shows that these programs improve academic success, reduce opportunity gaps and provide safe, enriching spaces for students outside school hours.

Despite Richfield's strong existing programs for young people, many youth still need greater support. The Pathways & Possibilities Forum ignited a plan to build on our existing strengths—like our school-linked Beacons centers, DELORES Works summer enrichment classes, Community Education programming and our Best Buy Teen Tech Center—to create uniquely impactful opportunities for all Richfield youth.

About the Beacons Network

The Beacons Network partners with schools and community organizations to provide safe, supportive and enriching expanded learning opportunities for young people. Through collaborative leadership and innovative programming, Beacons ensures that all youth—especially those from under-resourced communities—have the tools and opportunities to succeed in school, work and life.

The Pathways & Possibilities Forum was just the beginning, with leaders, educators and youth advocates united in a shared vision. The conversations sparked at the event will continue to shape a brighter future for Richfield's youth.