Better Family Life’s Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) builds the leadership skills and capacity of St. Louis Youth to weigh in on policies that impact their daily lives as youth in our community.  

​The Youth Leadership Academy aims to train youth in critical leadership competencies which will prepare them to work effectively with key stakeholders. Through experiential learning opportunities, inquiry skills and strategic communication, youth are better equipped to address the greatest challenges facing our city. 

In addition to the leadership training, your child will also get a chance to participate in activities such as, the Teen Pregnancy and STD/HIV Prevention training, field trips around St. Louis, Dance and Drama courses, Swimming, Soccer, Basketball games, local college fairs and HBCU tours.  

​The Network
YLA brings together a network of civic-minded students of diverse backgrounds committed to lifting up youth voices and leading change. Upon graduation from the YLA, they join an accomplished community of BFL alumni from all industries and sectors who are dedicated to supporting one another and improving the City so that it is a better place to live, work, and learn.
 

The Knowledge
YLA learn about critical policies and practices that influence students city-wide and become engaged in the tough conversations most related to school culture, safety, relationships, and creating supportive learning environments in STL schools.
 
The Skills
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of education policy, the skills to engage their peers and other community members in decision-making processes, and the opportunity to make a real and lasting impact in the school system.

Are you ready to turn your young man or young lady into a leader of tomorrow?  If so, Better Family Life’s Youth Leadership Academy is the way to do it.  Better Family Life offers leadership training for youth during the summer for ages 12 – 18.  In additional to the leadership training, your child will also get a chance to participate in activities such as: Teen Pregnancy and STD/HIV Prevention training, field trips around Saint Louis, dance and drama courses, swimming, basketball camp and local college fairs and tours. A one-time $50 activity fee is required per student.

Camp Hours
Monday-Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Extended Care 7:00am – 8:00am & 5:00pm-6:00pm
Camp Schedule (no camp July 4th and 5th)

Camp Schedule:
Week 1 June 17 –21 
Week 2 June 24 –28 
Week 3 July   1 – 5 
Week 4 July  8  – 12 
Week 5 July   15 – 19 
Week 6 July   22 – 26

Activities
• Sporting events 
• Swimming 
• Physical education 
• S.T.E.A.M. 
• Themed activities 
• Arts and crafts 
• Swimming Field Trips

Field Trips
• College Tours
• History Museum
• Media Stations
• Chess Hall of Fame
• Recreational Trips
• Tennis Court
• Swimming