Build Leadership Skills. Gain Real Experience. Get Ahead.

Junior Leadership Dayton (JLD) is a servant leadership program for high school juniors across the Miami Valley. Through hands-on experiences, monthly sessions, community exposure, and a leadership retreat, students build the confidence and skills needed to grow as leaders in school, college, and beyond.

This program is presented in collaboration with the YMCA of Greater Dayton, Wright State University, and The Dayton Foundation.

Why Join Junior Leadership Dayton?

Why Students Love JLD:

• Build real leadership skills
• Strengthen college applications and resumes
• Meet students from across the region
• Connect with Dayton-area leaders and organizations
• Build confidence in communication and decision-making
• Make a real impact through a team service project

What Students Will Do

What to Expect

• Students in Junior Leadership Dayton will:
• Attend 7 full-day sessions from September through April
• Participate in a leadership weekend at Camp Kern
• Work alongside community leaders
• Explore real-world issues facing the Dayton region
• Complete a team service project
• Grow through hands-on experiences, discussions, and leadership development activities

What Students Will Learn

Skills Students Build

• Participants develop valuable skills in:
• Leadership and decision-making
• Government and community systems
• Media and communication
• Diversity and cultural awareness
• Service and philanthropy

Bonus Opportunity

Earn College Credit + Receive a $500 Scholarship

Through our partnership with Wright State University, students who complete the program can:

• Earn college credit
• Receive a $500 scholarship upon completion

That means Junior Leadership Dayton doesn’t just build leadership skills — it also creates real value for students planning for college and their future.

Who Should Apply?

Is Junior Leadership Dayton Right for You?

JLD is a great fit for students who are:

• Ready to grow as leaders
• Interested in making a difference in their community
• Curious about real-world issues
• Looking to stand out for college, scholarships, and future opportunities
• Excited to meet other motivated students from across the Dayton region

Students apply in the spring and participate during their junior year of high school.

Apply Today! 

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