Youth Leadership Corps
Youth Leadership Corps (YLC)
Applications for the 2026–27 year open in January! Want a heads up when they’re live? Fill out this form and we’ll let you know.
YLC is a free, year-long program for Bay Area high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. From September to May, you’ll team up with other students to plan and lead monthly community service projects.
You’ll also head out on a 14-day backpacking trip in the High Sierra—an adventure that brings your crew together and builds your leadership.
Questions? Contact us at: [email protected].
Application Process
- Complete an application. Applications open in January and will be accepted until all spots are filled.
- You’ll need one letter of recommendation from someone who isn’t a family member.
- Interviews take place throughout April.
High Sierra Expedition & Bay Area Service Projects
The 14-day High Sierra expedition runs July 22–August 4 and includes rock climbing, navigation, and backcountry cooking.
Service projects and meetings take place across the Bay Area. Most locations are accessible by public transit, and we can help arrange transportation for the rest.
For more information and to donate to this scholarship program:
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Youth Leadership Corps FAQs
What makes a strong applicant?
Past YLC students have brought things like creative project ideas, dedication to their community, solid organizational skills, clear communication, and a readiness to challenge themselves.
What is the solo part of the expedition?
The solo happens near the end of the trip. During this time, students spend a period away from both their group and the instructors to have some quiet and personal reflection. Instructors stay close by—just a short walk from solo sites—and check in regularly to provide water, help with any cuts or scrapes, assist with medication, and make sure everyone is doing okay.
The purpose of the solo is to reflect on your experiences during the course, think about what you’ve learned, and take a pause from the pace of the expedition.
Do you need previous backpacking experience to be accepted into the YLC program?
No - you don’t need any prior experience—just be ready to step outside your comfort zone and take on new challenges.
What happens on a service day?
Each service day has a theme, a community organization to work with, a group intention to focus on, and a discussion at the end to reflect on the day.
Students plan and design service projects in small teams of 2–3. Each project includes three parts: Tone Set (setting the focus and energy for the day), Service Project (the hands-on work), and Reflection (thinking about what you learned and experienced).
What skills can I gain from YLC?
YLC instructors and mentors help students build their understanding of what makes a strong leader. You’ll learn things like SMART goal setting, collaboration, commitment to service, and problem-solving. You’ll practice these skills through real-life experiences that challenge you to rely on your team and think critically about each situation.
What are the requirements to complete YLC?
To complete the program, students need to::
- Attend orientation in June
- Participate in the High Sierra wilderness expedition
- Help plan and lead a group service project
- Have no more than one excused absence from a service project (make-up hours are available)
What opportunities are available after YLC?
After completing the program, you can:
- Attend Outward Bound California events and share your experiences with donors and community supporters
- Receive a letter of recommendation to use for college or job applications
- Join a larger alumni network for mentorship and idea-sharing
- Apply to be a High Sierra intern or a Ropes Course apprentice once you’re eligible.
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