Cotillion & Youth Presentation & Mentorship Program Orientation

About Young Debs Inc.

Young Debs Inc. is a Baltimore-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development and mentoring organization dedicated to helping young people build confidence, character, leadership skills, and a commitment to service. Our Cotillion and Youth Presentation Mentorship and Scholarship Program serves students in grades 3–12 through an approximately year-long experience designed to support their academic, social, and personal development.

Throughout the program year, students participate in mentorship, etiquette education, leadership and life-skills workshops, college and career readiness activities, community service, cultural experiences, and social enrichment opportunities. Students have opportunities to strengthen communication and professional skills, develop meaningful relationships, expand their networks, and earn scholarships connected to successful program participation.

The season culminates with our annual Lavender Gala, where our Young, Junior, and Senior Debutantes and Beaus are formally presented and recognized for their growth and accomplishments.

Why Choose Young Debs Inc.?

✔ Leadership Development
✔ One-on-One & Group Mentorship
✔ Etiquette & Professional Skills
✔ Community Service
✔ Cultural Enrichment
✔ Scholarship Opportunities
✔ College & Career Readiness
✔ Lifelong Friendships & Networking

Orientation Overview

The Young Debs Inc. Orientation & Meet & Greet is designed for returning students and families, newly accepted students and families, and prospective families who are prepared to commit to joining Young Debs Inc. for the upcoming program year to particiate in the Cotillion & Youth Presentation Program.

All participating families, including returning students and families, are expected to attend Orientation. Each program year brings important updates, and the Student/Parent Handbook contains new and revised information, policies, expectations, and program requirements that all families need to review. Orientation ensures that everyone begins the new season informed and prepared. It also provides returning families with an opportunity to reconnect with the organization and meet our new students, families, mentors, and volunteers.

The purpose of Orientation is to provide committed families with the detailed information needed to successfully begin the program year. Families will review program expectations and policies, the annual calendar, workshops and activities, service opportunities, family responsibilities, important deadlines, and Lavender Gala requirements.

We also welcome families who are seriously considering enrollment and are prepared to commit but need to review the updated program calendar and scheduling requirements before making their final decision.

Please note: This is not a general information session. Our general Information Session was held on August 13, 2026 and was designed for families who were exploring the program and learning about Young Debs Inc. for the first time. Families who are still in the exploratory stage should first review the Information Session video, informational brochure, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) available on the Young Debs Inc. website at www.youngdebsinc.org.

Required Attendance for New Students and Sponsorship Applicants: Attendance at the Orientation & Meet & Greet is required for all newly enrolled students and students applying for sponsorship or financial assistance. The Orientation provides important information regarding program expectations, participation requirements, and family responsibilities. Failure to attend the required Orientation may result in forfeiture of a sponsorship opportunity.

Attendance: Each participating household may include the enrolled or prospective student(s) and up to two parents or guardians. Households with multiple participating students are still limited to two parents or guardians. Siblings who are not enrolled or applying to participate should not be included in the attendance count and should not attend the session.

RSVP Commitment: Because space and resources for Orientation are limited, we kindly ask families to RSVP only if they are committed to attending. If you RSVP, your attendance is expected. Space, materials, refreshments, and other resources are planned based on confirmed attendance. A “no-show” after submitting an RSVP uses limited resources and may prevent another family from attending. If your plans change after registering, please notify Young Debs Inc. as soon as possible so that we can adjust our arrangements accordingly.