Youth Leadership Academy
Creating Leaders and Inspiring Scholars!
Why Support YLA
Donate to
YLA
At YLA, we serve Elgin community students on their journey into college and the post-college world. 100% of our cadets come from families of low income, and 93% of our cadets are people of color with about 85% 1st generation college students.
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And above all, 100% of our cadets are living the YLA motto:
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"I AM on the path to success.
I AM college-bound."
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These are the words that our cadets thrive by as they work hard in our YLA program to become scholars and leaders in the community. During their six years in the program, each of our cadets complete a minimum of 360 leadership training hours. They exercise their leadership skills through service learning projects every year, making a positive difference in Elgin and nearby communities. And after they graduate from our program, our cadets continue to use the skills, experience, and know-how they have developed in their next endeavors, in college and beyond.
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Help us raise the next generation of YLA scholars and leaders. If you believe that the color of a child's skin should not be a barrier to being a community leader, join us.
If you believe that the contents of one's wallet should not close the door to college education, support us.
If you believe that all children deserve the chance to reach their full potential, walk with us.
Only through your generosity can our program continue to exist and grow, and to prepare our young people for the future.
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Show your support today, and be a YLA Hero!
#YLAHero
Donate now!
Please select a giving level:
$15: 1 hour of
mentorship
for a cadet
$100: 1 year of
supplies for a service learning project
$30: 1 hour of leadership training for a cadet
$300:
1/2 the amount for a field trip for 25 cadets to tour a regional college or university
$50: 1 hour of professional tutoring for a cadet
General Donations
Other ways to support us
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There are many ways that you can become a part of the YLA team:
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Become a donor, sponsor, or partner of the YLA
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Become a member of the YLA's staff or board
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Volunteer
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When you shop Amazon, use AmazonSmile. Check Youth leadership Academy as your donation organization
If you are interested in participating in any way, then please do not hesitate to contact us.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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THANK YOU!
Extravaganza Donors 2024-25
Alpengirl Camp
Blink
Charities Vacation
Chicago Bear
Chicago cubs
Chicago White sox
Chick fil a
Colonia cafe
Dr. Clare M. Ollayos
DSC Consulting No Risk Charity Auction Program
Eco Lips bug soother
Elgin Centre
Elgin History Museum
​​Friends of YLA
Gorjana
Hemmens
Jewel Osco
Lou Malnatis
Movement Lincoln Park
Navy Pier
Oriental trading
Peoria Park District
Snatched Dolls
St. Louis Cardinals
Total Wine
Tropical Smoothie
Writer’s Theater
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Sponsorships
Ivy Academy/North End Youth Center
One Source Production Media Video
Corey Dixon
Grantors 2024-25
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Judson Community College
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Grand Victoria Foundation
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Elgin Township
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Kiwanis of Elgin
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Ross Stores
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IL Charitable Trust
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Associated Bank
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Heartland Bank
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City Of Elgin
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Community Blue Angels
Blue Angels are dedicated community members and companies who believe in YLA’s mission and value our role in the community. They have generously committed to giving $1,000–$5,000 per year for the next 2–3 years.
From the bottom of our hearts—thank you.
If you’re interested in becoming a Blue Angel, please email our director at kpegues@ylacademy.org.
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