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: $155 

Summer Youth Leader 

The Youth Leader (YL) program will be taking a hiatus this summer, with an anticipated return this fall. 

To ensure our team can provide the highest level of support and safety for our peak summer camp season, we are shifting our focus to core operations during these busy months. We are committed to the long-term success of the YL program and look forward to using this time to plan for its future. Thank you for your understanding!

Spring Youth Leader Registration

Register for one of the below YL options that your teen is most interested in as an anchor on-site program. They’ll be paired with one of our outstanding staff mentors and take an active role in learning the job. Space is limited per program, so don’t wait—secure their spot today!

Registration for Spring Youth Leader positions closes on March 16, or when the limited spots are filled—whichever comes first.

Due to the dynamic nature of Youth Leader assignments, late registration will not be available.

YOUTH SPORTS OPTIONS

Basketball Clinic Coach | Saturdays from 3/28-5/9 Click here to register

CARD Hiking Club | Saturdays from 3/28-5/9 Click here to register

Flag Football Official | Wednesdays from 4/15-5/13 Click here to register

Toddler Sports Coach | Mon, Tue, Wed and/or Thu from 3/30-5/7 Click here to register

Volleyball Clinic Coach | Saturdays from 3/28-5/9 Click here to register

Volleyball League Coach | Wed or Thu, and Fri from 4/1-5/15 Click here to register

NATURE CENTER OPTIONS

Janeece Webb Living Animal Museum | Saturdays 3/28-5/9 Click here to register

Janeece Webb Living Animal Museum | Sundays 3/29-5/10 Click here to register

TODDLER OPTIONS (for Homeschooled Youth Leaders)

Nature School Aide | Wednesdays from 4/1-5/15 Click here to register

Stellar Start PLAYschool Aide | Tues or Thu from 3/31-5/14 Click here to register

Orientation

Once registered, all Youth Leaders and one parent/guardian must attend our Youth Leader Orientation on Monday, March 23, from 5:30-6:30 PM at the Dorothy F. Johnson Center.

Level Up Lab

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 Mondays from 5:30-6:30 PM from March 30 through May 11 (no program 4/6) 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!