Youth Leadership Initiative Applications Available For Class of 2015-2016
Applications for Greater Des Moines’ Youth Leadership Initiative (YLI) Class of 2015-2016 are now available. YLI provides next years’ sophomore or junior students from both public and private high schools from across the region experiential mentoring and leadership opportunities that enhance self-esteem and encourage involvement in all levels of community life. Participation in the YLI program is tuition free thanks to the sponsorship of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Students meet twice monthly between August and May to explore topics on leadership while learning about the Greater Des Moines Region. YLI classes take place once during the school day each month. YLI staff works with each students’ school to ensure missed class days are excused absences.
Applications will be accepted until Noon (CST) on April 24, 2015. Applications are to be filled out entirely by the student with the exception of Section 5, which is to be filled out by a non-relative, adult referral. Only completed applications will be considered by the YLI Selection Committee. Please review the YLI Fact Sheet found at: DSMpartnership.com/education prior to completing the application.
The goals of the YLI program are:
- EMPOWERING youth to connect, participate in change, and create their ideal community
- ENCOURAGING youth to become active participants in their community
- ENGAGING youth in opportunities to invest their futures in Greater Des Moines
For more information, please visit DSMpartnership.com/education or contact program director, Nathan Ritz, at (515) 286-4937 or nritz@DSMpartnership.com. Media inquiries should be directed to Susan Ramsey at (515) 286-4954 or sramsey@DSMpartnership.com.
About the Youth Leadership Initiative
YLI began as a project of the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute's Community Leadership class of 2001-2002. It is now a program of the Partnership’s Regional Workforce Development and Education initiative. Now in its 14th year, YLI’s mission is to help local youth see a community that is welcoming, nurturing, and vital which provides ample opportunity for participation in meaningful community change, networking, and individual growth. Since its inception, more than 381 students have successfully graduated from the program.