KIDS PLUS Youth Leadership Academy

Young people have a genuine desire to make a difference in the world – all it takes is guidance and encouragement from caring adults. When given real-life opportunities to lead and serve their communities, teens are eager to share their talents for the good of others.

The KIDS PLUS Youth Leadership Academy is a unique program of the Northland Foundation that gives young people a chance to discover new skills and confidence. A group of about 50 ninth graders, along with volunteer adult mentors, join together in a yearlong, hands-on learning experience. They represent a cross-section of neighborhoods, schools, gender, race, ethnicity, and socio-economic backgrounds.

Over a nine-month period, a series of interactive workshops sharpens the young people’s communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities. As spring approaches, the students choose, plan, and raise funds to carry out a community service project. They put their skills to the test!

From cleaning, painting, and yard work at a nonprofit family shelter to hosting a day of fun activities for nursing home residents, Youth Leadership participants reach out to others in truly meaningful ways. Past graduates say this experience has made a lasting impact on their lives.

All program costs – $1,000 per student per year – are supported by tax-deductible gifts from the community and the Northland Foundation. Donations from individuals, businesses, and service organizations are critical to our ability to continue offering this 12-year-old program.

Are you interested in helping develop the next generation of energized and engaged citizens? Please support the KIDS PLUS Youth Leadership Academy !