YLDP Update – March 2026

Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) – A Quarter of Growth, Learning, and Leadership

This quarter, students in the Compass for Kids Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) continued building leadership skills, exploring career pathways, and strengthening social-emotional skills through engaging activities, guest speakers, and interactive learning experiences.

Enrichment and Career Exploration

YLDP participants had the opportunity to learn from inspiring professionals who shared their knowledge, career journeys, and life experiences.

Michael Clark from Ecofluent visited with students to discuss career pathways and the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility. His presentation encouraged students to think about how their future careers can make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Students also received Youth Seizure Recognition and First Aid Training from Ebony Logan of the Springfield Epilepsy Advocacy Network. This valuable training equipped students with practical knowledge about recognizing seizures and responding appropriately in emergency situations, an important life skill that promotes awareness and preparedness.

In addition, Becky Gabany from ChangeBridge Consulting spoke with students about leadership, communication, and navigating change. Her session encouraged participants to reflect on their own leadership potential and the importance of empathy, perspective, and adaptability.

Finally, our YLDP youth wrapped up a month-long financial literacy series with Mark Franklin II. Throughout the sessions, students explored real-world topics like budgeting, saving, and the true cost of everyday expenses, gaining practical knowledge they can carry with them into adulthood. One student summed it up perfectly with a laugh, exclaiming, “Being an adult is expensive!”

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Learning Beyond the Classroom

YLDP students also had the chance to explore the healthcare field through a field trip led by YLDP volunteer, Adrian Newson, to the HSHS St. John’s Cancer Center. During the visit, students learned about careers in healthcare, toured the facility, and gained insight into how medical professionals work together to support patients and families. The photos below show the behind-the-scenes look that the kids received!

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Building Community and Having Fun

Learning was balanced with fun and connection throughout the quarter. Students celebrated Black History Month with a lively trivia activity that sparked conversation and learning about influential leaders and historical milestones.

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YLDP teens also enjoyed time with their Club Compass Buddies, strengthening friendships and building a supportive community among peers.

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Social-Emotional Learning in Action

A major focus of YLDP is helping students develop the social and emotional skills needed to navigate life, relationships, and leadership roles. Recent Social Emotional Learning (SEL) sessions focused on:

• Accepting and managing emotions
• Understanding how emotions provide information and energy
• Understanding personal boundaries
• Intent vs. impact in communication
• Understanding and navigating conflict
• Conflict resolution strategies
• Interconnection and our shared humanity

Through discussions, activities, and reflection, students learned how to understand their own emotions, communicate effectively, and work through challenges with empathy and respect.

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Growing the Next Generation of Leaders

With spring approaching, we are looking forward to the second semester of growth, fun, and new experiences with our YLDP teens. 

Thank you to all of the volunteers, enrichment partners, dinner providers, and supporters for your engagement in growing this program and creating a safe space for local teens.

If you would like more information about Getting Involved, visit: https://www.compassforkids.org/programs/yldp/