LEAD Program 2025–2026 Registration Announcement

We are excited to announce the opening of registration for the upcoming year of our LEAD Program, an initiative designed to nurture leadership, service, and civic engagement among youth.

We are introducing a few new changes to enrich the program experience. This year, we are excited to introduce the Sewa Presidential Award, introduced in place of the PVSA (President’s Volunteer Service Award), which is currently on pause.

We are also opening the program to 8th graders this year! For 8th grade participants, one adult accompanying them for service activities is mandatory.

Please review all details carefully before registering. If you have any questions, we encourage you to reach out before completing registration.

Program Highlights

• Hands-on Volunteering & Service Hours Recognition
• Teen-Focused Speaker Series & Personal Growth
• Progressive Graduation Program (Bronze–Silver–Gold–Platinum)
• Sewa Presidential Service Award eligibility
• National Youth Council opportunities
• Design to LEAD Program (Year 2+; curated & taught by a Stanford professor)
• Cultivating Leadership & Lifelong Skills

Note:

• The Design to Lead (DTL) program, beginning in January, is available only to students registered in the LEAD program. Late registrations will not be accepted.  
• Spaces are limited, and selection is first-come, first-served, subject to meeting criteria.

Program Expectations

• Commit to 50+ volunteer hours during the program year
• Participate in mandatory events, including the National Youth Conference.
• Stay engaged, informed, and responsive to communication from the LEAD team
• At least one parent/guardian is expected to volunteer 10 hours during the program year to support events and activities.

We look forward to another year of impact, growth, and community leadership!