Become a Youth Leader in Lauderdale County!

Application Window: July 1 - August 23

Review Period: August 24 - August 28 (Blind Review Process)

Interviews (Top 50): September 2nd

Our Purpose: To develop and grow leadership characteristics in our youth through interaction with our community leaders, working through 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, and providing volunteer opportunities in our community. By bringing together a diverse group of high school juniors, our goal is to help develop an understanding of their personal leadership style and community responsibility.

Application Details:

1. Youth Leadership Lauderdale is open to all high school juniors who attend school or reside in Lauderdale County.
2. Students will be chosen for the program based on the application, interview, and approval by principal and parent/guardian. All applicants must have a 2.5 GPA out of a possible 4.0 GPA for the previous school year. All participants must complete their own application.
3. The number of participants will be limited to 30 in order to encourage maximum personal participation.
4. The cost of the program is $150 per participant. Limited scholarships are available upon request. If accepted - bring check made out to EMBDF for $150 to the retreat.

Retreat: An event in which the group will participate in team-building activities and study The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens. The retreat is mandatory for all selected participants.

Transportation: Transportation to and from the meeting location will be the responsibility of the individual student. Once at the meeting location, any needed transportation will be provided for safety reasons and everyone will travel together.

Community Service: The class will participate in group community service projects outside of the monthly meetings. Participation is required.

Monthly Meeting: Each session will be held on a Wednesday from 8AM-2:30PM. Participation in the monthly sessions is required. If absent, participant or parent/guardian must contact McCall Waller at the EMBDC. We will contact the school to report absences. You must attend each session below - DO NOT apply if you have anything scheduled on any of the dates below.

Tuesday, September 22, 2026 (5-8PM)

Wednesday, September 23, 2026 (8AM-2:30PM)

Wednesday, October 7, 2026 (8AM-2:30PM)

Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (8AM-2:30PM)

Wednesday, December 2, 2026 (8AM-2:30PM)

Wednesday, January 13, 2027 (8AM-2:30PM)

Wednesday, February 10, 2027 (8AM-2:30PM)

Wednesday, March 3, 2027 (8AM-2:30PM)

Monday, April 5, 2027 (Graduation)