top of page

Join YLA!
 

logo FULL.png
Because of the interruption of our application cycle in 2020 due to COVID-19, YLA will also be accepting applications for current 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th graders.  

 

​​Who is eligible to apply?

To apply, a student must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Currently in 6th grade

  • Resides within Elgin Community College District 509 (which includes the geographical boundaries for IL School Districts U-46, D300, D301, and D303)

  • Is eligible for free or reduced lunch

​

How many students are selected each year?

We receive up to 200 applications each year.  We offer approximately 50 of these applicants a family interview, and from there select up to 25 student finalists to be YLA cadets.

​

Complete Application (Digital)

Complete Application PDF  

​

​​​​

Below is the application in sections:

Application Checklist 2024

​To apply, applicants must have all of the following forms (click the links below to access each form individually, or press the APPLY button to view them all at once):

​

  1. Completed Student Information Form

  2. Completed Student Questions Form  (separate handwritten paper must be attached)

  3. Teacher Recommendation Form  completed by one of the applicant's 6th grade teachers

  4. Office/Principal Recommendation Form  completed by the applicant's school principal/counselor/administrator

  5. Adult Recommendation Form  completed by an adult who knows the applicant (the adult must not be a parent or relative of the applicant)

  6. A copy of school documentation verifying that the applicant receives either free or reduced lunch

  7. Family's completed 1040 tax form  (at least the first two pages).  If current tax documents are not available, then the family may submit documents from past year; however, the family will be asked to turn in the current documents upon entrance into the YLA.

  8. Applicant and Parent Agreement & Commitment

​

Note that the Student Information Form and the Student Questions Form must be submitted together.

Our application process is competitive; as a result, late applications are strictly not accepted.  Applications are due by:

​​​​​​

Rise and Shine Like the Roaring Twenties:

A Gatsby-Style Benefit Breakfast!

Join Us

Inspiring the next generation of leaders through innovative programs and mentorship. Together, we shape a brighter future. Unleash your potential and make a difference in your community. Join our Youth Leadership Academy today!

dress code gatsbyCotton Club (2).png

Purchase Tickets

No Need for a printout, your name will be on our list.

Speaker - Rick Williams

Speaker's Bio

​

Coach RickCoach Rick has dedicated his career to empowering and mentoring young athletes, helping them develop the skills, discipline, and confidence needed for success in both sports and life. With over 20 years of coaching experience, 6 years as a High School Athletic Director, and 8 years as a Travel Basketball Club owner, he has worked closely with hundreds of students—guiding them through the challenges of competition, academics, and personal growth.

 

As a former NCCAA All-American and current University Athletic Director, Coach Rick understands firsthand what it takes for young athletes to thrive. His mentorship focuses on more than just athletic performance; he emphasizes leadership, character development, and academic success, ensuring that students are prepared for opportunities beyond the game.

 

Coach Rick’s passion for working with youth stems from his belief that every child deserves guidance, support, and the tools to reach their full potential. His experience has shown him that success is not just about talent—it’s about having the right mindset, strong mentorship, and a support system that believes in their future.

 

As a featured speaker at the Youth Leadership Academy Benefit Breakfast, Coach Rick will share his insights on the importance of mentorship, resilience, and preparing students for lifelong achievement.

© 2023 by THE BUILDER. Proudly created with Wix.com 

  • w-facebook
  • Twitter Clean
  • White Google+ Icon
bottom of page