YLI: Invest in developing high school sophomores

Young Leaders Institute (YLI) offers high school sophomores an opportunity to grow as leaders, learn about career pathways, and explore their community. Returning after an eight-year hiatus, the program empowers students to have two-way conversations with business and community leaders about issues that matter to them.

Students complete a leadership assessment and focus on their personal leadership skills.

Students are encouraged to expand their own values, philosophies, and beliefs while learning alongside classmates from different schools as well as ethnic, economic, and social backgrounds.

This year's cohort of 34 students represents every school district in Richland County.

Program days consist of leadership development sessions, career discussions, speakers, and tours of Richland County’s most interesting places. A capstone project will empower students to improve their skills in team building and communication while creating a marketing plan for the Sterkel Community Park for All.

To be inclusive of all Richland County students, this program is tuition-free. Richland County Youth and Family Council funds this program along with corporate sponsors. There is a gap in funding to cover food costs. Funds raised will be allocated to feed students during program days.