Become a Youth Leader- lead the way, inspire young minds, and grow as a leader! 

Are you ready to boost your confidence, build your resume, and make a real difference in your community? The Youth Leader (YL) Program is a mentorship opportunity for teens in grades 6–12 to develop into dynamic, capable leaders and community members.

Each week includes a 1-hour Level Up Lab and 1.5 to 3 flexible on-site hours with an experienced mentor (hours subject to program availability). Register for your Youth Leader's preferred program, set your availability, and mark your calendar with the mandatory orientation dates below. Specific on-site program information will be provided at the Youth Leader Orientation. 

💰Fee: $159 

Winter Youth Leader Registration

Step 1: Register for one of the below YL options that your teen is most interested in as an anchor on-site program.

Step 2: Mark your calendar with your chosen on-site program hours, the YL/Parent Orientation on Tuesday, January 12th 5:30-6:30 PM at the Dorothy F. Johnson Center, and our weekly Level Up Labs on Tuesdays 1/19-3/9 5:30-6:30 PM at the Dorothy F. Johnson Center, 775 E. 16th Street.

Step 3: Your youth leader will be paired with one of our outstanding staff mentors and take an active role in learning the job and growing their leadership skills. Space is limited per program, so don’t wait—secure their spot today!

Registration for Winter Youth Leader positions closes on January 8th, or when the limited spots are filled—whichever comes first.

Because Youth Leader assignments are dynamic, late registration will not be available.

SPORTS

Soccer Clinic Coach | Wednesdays | 1/13-3/3 | 3:15-6:45 PM Click here to register!

Volleyball Clinic Coach | Saturdays | 1/23-3/13 | 9:15-11:45 AM Click here to register!

Toddler Sports Coach | Saturdays | 1/16-3/6 | 9:15 - 11:30 AM  Click here to register!

Basketball Clinic Coach | Sundays | 1/24-3/17 | 12:15-2:45 PM Click here to register!

NATURE CENTER

Nature Center Animal Aide | Saturdays | 1/16-3/6 | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM  Click here to register!

Nature Center Animal Aide | Sundays | 1/17-3/7 | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM  Click here to register!

HOMESCHOOL  

Nature School Aide | Wednesdays | 1/20-3/10 | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM Click here to register!

Cooking Club Aide | Thursdays | 1/21-3/11 | 9:45 AM-1:15 PM Click here to register!

Orientation

Once registered, all Youth Leaders and one parent/guardian must attend our Youth Leader Orientation on Tuesday, January 12th, from 5:30-6:30 PM at the Dorothy F. Johnson Center.

Level Up Labs

In addition to on-site leadership experience, Youth Leaders will take part in our weekly Level Up Labs, an interactive workshop series designed to help teens thrive in real-world settings.  Level Up Labs will take place on Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 PM from October 27 through December 15 at the Dorothy F. Johnson Center.

Workshops include:

• Career and College Readiness
• Communication Skills
• Teamwork and Leadership Practice
• Practical Life Skills 
• Plus occasional guest speakers!

Why Become a Youth Leader?

🔀 CHOOSE YOUR PATH

You get to choose the program that fits your teen's specific interests—from youth sports to summer camps! Youth Leaders are partnered with experienced CARD staff to lead games and activities and create unforgettable experiences for younger kids.

But it’s not just about fun—it’s about your teen's future.

🧠 WHY JOIN THE YOUTH LEADER PROGRAM?

• Build leadership and job-readiness skills
• Gain real-world volunteer experience
• Earn community service hours
• Grow confidence and responsibility
• Be a positive role model
• Make new friends and have a blast doing it!

💡 WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• An official CARD Youth Leader shirt
• Mentorship from experienced program staff
• Hands-on experience in a program of your choice
• Weekly "Level Up Labs" with fun and valuable training

WATCH YOUR TEEN LEAD THE WAY, LEVEL UP, AND LEAVE THEIR MARK!