Free youth conference returns to Trenton—Truth Summit 2026 set for August 14–15 at 471 Parkway Avenue
One of Trenton’s most anticipated youth events of the year is back. Truth Summit 2026 returns for its fourth consecutive year on Friday and Saturday, August 14–15, 2026, at 471 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, NJ. Doors open at 8:30 AM and the event runs from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM each day—and young people ages 5 through 18 get in completely free, but they must register.
Truth Summit is a transformative, faith-based youth leadership and empowerment conference designed to equip young people ages 5–18 with the character, knowledge, and leadership skills needed to succeed in today’s world. Rooted in biblical truth and Christ-centered leadership, the Truth Summit confronts the urgent realities shaping urban and underserved communities—equipping youth to lead with clarity, purpose, and integrity.
The two-day conference is built around the needs and futures of Trenton-area youth. Young people can expect fun-filled outdoor activities, dynamic keynote speakers, age-appropriate youth breakout sessions, mentorship conversations, creative expression and worship experiences, and hands-on learning opportunities. Breakfast and lunch are provided at no cost to all registered attendees on both days.
“Truth Summit exists because young people deserve a space where they are seen, equipped, and celebrated,” said Dr. Valerie Arthur, founder of Truth Summit and Senior Pastor of Calvary Pentecostal Church. “We are growing every year because this community knows its young people are worth investing in. We are expecting our biggest Summit yet.”
Now in its fourth year, Truth Summit has built a reputation as a multi-generational, faith-grounded community event that draws youth, families, civic leaders, and organizations from across the Trenton and Mercer County region. This year’s program includes keynote speakers, youth breakout sessions, outdoor activities, youth art, and other community resources.
Truth Summit is led by Dr. Valerie Arthur, who holds a Master of Divinity and a doctorate in Prison Policy and Transformative Justice from Rutgers University, New Brunswick. She chairs the Smith Family Foundation and is the founder of Christ Centered in the City School of Ministry. Dr. Arthur’s humanitarian work extends internationally to Pakistan, South Africa, and Haiti, where she founded the KNA School, which serves more than 200 students from PreK through 9th grade. She previously served as the first African American administrator at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women in New Jersey.
REGISTRATION & SPONSORSHIP
Youth ages 5–18 attend free of charge—registration is required. Adult registration is $130 per person. Community organizations, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to sponsor one or more youth at $55 per youth, helping defray event costs and ensuring broad access for Trenton-area families.
