L.E.A.D.

Vital Stats

Stephanie C

Shawnee Mission, KS

  • people helped5000
  • People Doing It 400

The Problem

In the United States, 6th-9th grade youth are on the brink of early adulthood and are provided with the least amount of structured extracurricular activity. L.E.A.D, Leadership Education and Development, provides a safe, structured, and fun summer experience for 11-14 year old youth. Youth from diverse backgrounds and life situations are combined to participate in community service projects, educational and career exploration activities, healthy and positive recreation, and life skill activities. L.E.A.D. provides many of the tools necessary for academic and social success.

Plan of Action

L.E.A.D. is a summer program in Johnson County KS. 6th-9th grade youth participate weekly from June through August. Participants are given a safe and structured environment to directly plan and schedule their days while participating in community service projects, healthy leisure activities, life skill activities, and career and educational opportunity exploration. Participants earn up to 12 community service hours each week while volunteering at food pantries, retirement homes, animal shelters, forest preserves, youth homes, and as peer models, mentors, and tutors. Participants are also introduced to numerous recreational activities that combat the unhealthy life choices available to this age group. Recreational activities include individual and team sports, outdoor hobbies, adventure and extreme sports, art, music, science, and technology. Career and educational opportunities are explored through tours of businesses, guest speakers, and college campus visits. L.E.A.D. combines education, exploration, and fun for a summer experience that positively impacts the lives of its participants while making a significant difference in the community.