Student Community and Leadership Opportunities for Delawareans

4-H

Website: http://extension.udel.edu/4h/

Description: 4-H is a youth mentorship program aimed at providing children and teens with the guidance and resources necessary to develop confidence, personal skills, and their futures. Located throughout the country and state (Delaware HQ: Newark), 4-H offers a wide range of classes, clubs, and camps in multiple subjects. Time commitment varies based on classes and personal involvement.
Who Can Apply: Anyone ages 5-19.
Contact Information:
New Castle County:
Cooperative Extension

461 Wyoming Road

Newark, DE 19716
Phone: (302) 831-2667

Kent County:
Paradee Center

69 Transportation Road

Dover, Delaware
Phone: (302) 730-4000

Sussex County:
Research & Education Center

16483 County Seat Highway

Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: (302) 856-7303

American Legion: Boys State and Girls State

Website: http://www.boysandgirlsstate.org
Description: Boys and Girls State programs are designed to get young men and women involved in the democratic process through various events held at the local, state, and national levels.  Locations vary depending on the program (Delaware: Wesley College), and the program length varies from one-two weeks (often in June).
Who Can Apply: Students in the latter half of their junior year of high school may apply for the summer prior to their senior year. Applicants must be in the upper third of their class with demonstrated leadership abilities. Applicants may be recommended by a previous attendee or their school administrator, JROTC commander, or local American Legion Auxiliary commander.
Contact Information:
Boys State:
 Lyman R. Brenner
Lymanrbrenner@earthlink.net
Phone: 302-628-5221

Girls State: Lisamarie McCarley
DEGS1919@gmail.com
Phone: 302-766-4670

 

ASPIRA

Website: http://www.aspira.org/
Description: ASPIRA is a national Hispanic organization dedicated exclusively to developing the educational and leadership capacity of Hispanic youth by providing mentorship and support programs for interested students throughout the country. The Delaware organization location is in Newark. Time commitment varies.
Who Can Apply: Hispanic youth.
Contact Information:
ASPIRA, Inc. of Delaware 
702 Cardiff Road

Wilmington, DE 19803

Email: info@aspira.org
Phone: (302) 478-8332

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Website: http://bbbsde.org/
Description: Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) enlists adult volunteers to act as mentors and role models for at-risk youths, providing excellent one-on-one mentorship opportunities that can change lives for the better. BBBS mentors are carefully administered and trained in order to provide a safe and well-suited partnership built to last. Locations are found in New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County. Meetings typically occur 2-4 times a month between "Bigs and Littles."
Who Can Apply: All ages (adults apply to be mentors; youths apply for mentor).
Contact Information:
New Castle County:
413 Larch Circle
Wilmington, DE 19804
Phone: 302.998.3577

Kent County:
838 Walker Road
Suite 22-2
Dover, DE 19904
Phone: 302.674.2486

Sussex County:
17527 Nassau Commons Blvd

Lewes, DE 19958
Phone: 302.856.2918 

 

Bioneers Youth Leadership Program

Website: http://www.bioneers.org/youth-leadership/
Description: Bioneers offers youth leadership training and conferences designed to immerse students in creative planning and leadership roles. The program prides itself in a connection with and understanding of nature and attempts to involve that passion in its youth leadership training. Time commitment varies depending on program. Bioneers is located throughout the US (no Delaware locations are listed). Tuition varies based on program and need-based scholarships are available.
Who Can Apply: Students between age of 13-23.
Contact Information:
Phone: 1.505.986.0366 | 1.877.246.6337 (1.877.BIONEER)
Email: Info@Bioneers.org

 

Boy and Girl Scouts of America

Website: Boy Scouts: http://www.scouting.org/  Girl Scouts: http://www.girlscouts.org
Description: Boy and Girl Scouts offer numerous mentorship and educational opportunities. Scouts participate in a varied set of educational, leadership, and community-focused activities. Locations are found throughout the country (Delaware HQ: Newark). Time commitment, costs, fees, and scholarship opportunities may vary based on local chapter.
Who Can Apply: Girls ages 5-18 and boys ages 7-17 can contact their local chapter to apply. Applicants are recommended to join scout groups that relate to them.
Contact Information:
Boy Scouts:
 Del-Mar-Va Council, Inc.
1910 Baden Powell Way

Dover, DE 19904
Phone: 302-622-3300 

Email: info@dmvc.org

Girl Scouts: Chesapeake Bay Council
225 Old Baltimore Pike

Newark, DE 19702
Phone: 800-341-4007

 

Choices Education Group

Website: http://www.choices.org/
Description: Choices Education Group provides educational and mentorship programs designed to help teenagers navigate through difficult phases of their lives, gaining insights into their lives they may otherwise not have. Chapters are located throughout the country (with some programs available in Delaware schools). Time commitment varies by personal commitment. Fees and scholarships may vary.
Who Can Apply: Workshops are designed for teenagers but membership is also available for educators or parents.
Contact Information:
2030 First Avenue, Third Floor

Seattle, WA 98121
Phone: 206-CHOICES (246-4237)
Email: info@choices.org

 

Civil Air Patrol

Website: http://www.gocivilairpatrol.com

Delaware Wing: https://dewg.cap.gov/
Description: CAP is an organization of civilian flyers that provides national defense capabilities to the United States. The program provides a way to learn how to fly and get involved in the local community. Time commitment and location varies throughout the country (Delaware locations are in New Castle, Wilmington, Middletown, Dover, and Georgetown).
Who Can Apply: Cadets may join squadrons from ages 12-19. Adults may join a senior squadron.
Contact Information:
PO Box 2089

Building 1350

Dover AFB, De 19902

Phone: (302) 322-5493
Email: mooney.robert@dewg.cap.gov

 

Congressional Award

Website: http://congressionalaward.org/
Description: The Congressional Award provides an opportunity for young people to achieve life-long self-improvement and learn how to use self-motivation to accomplish difficult goals. After applying, participants set a goal related to: Volunteer Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, or Expedition/Exploration. Upon completing their personal goal, participants receive a Bronze, Silver, or Gold Congressional Award Certificate and Medal. The program is based out of Washington, D.C. but participants may complete goals anywhere.
Who Can Apply: Anyone aged 14-23 years old may apply; goals must be completed prior to the participant's 24th birthday.
Contact Information:
Sydney Tryon, North Program Manager

tryon@congressionalaward.org

 

Delaware Futures

Website: http://www.delawarefutures.org/
Description: Delaware Futures is a program that helps at-risk or disadvantaged youth in high school develop the social, academic, and problem-solving skills they need to qualify for college. It provides a great mentorship program for teenagers who want to go to college but may not know how. Delaware Futures is located in Wilmington, DE.
Who Can Apply: High school students.
Contact Information:
Delaware Futures
Trinity Parish Complex
1104 North Adams Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
Phone: (302) 652-8609 or (302) 652-8619
Email: dmelchiorre@delawarefutures.org

 

Delaware High School Mock Trial Competition

Website: http://delrec.org/lessons/delaware-mock-trial/
Description: Each year, Delaware’s High School Mock Trial Competition provides teams from schools and community groups with a legal case to analyze and present. During the Mock Trial, students play the roles of the witnesses and attorneys on both sides of the case.  The goal of the competition is to enhance students' citizenship skills through learning about the US trial system and developing critical thinking and public speaking skills.  The competition is held in Wilmington, Delaware in late February each year. The winner of the Delaware competition represents the state at the National High School Mock Trial Championship.
Who Can Apply: High school student teams from schools or community groups.
Contact Information:
The Delaware Law Related Education Center, Inc.
405 N. King Street, Suite 100C
Wilmington DE, 19801
Phone: (302) 778-0643
Email: delrecntr@aol.com

 

Delaware Leadership in Service (Pilot Program for DHSS)

Website: http://www.idealist.org/view/org/cHTDn2BftwSP/
Description: Delaware Leadership in Service provides service opportunities and employment for low-income Delaware youth who may not otherwise be able to access or afford training. Headquarters are in New Castle County. Time commitment varies depending on employment, event, or training.
Who Can Apply: Anyone ages 14-18.

Contact Information:
1901 N. DuPont Highway
New Castle, DE, 19720
Phone: 302-255-9896

 

Delaware Technical Community College TRIO – Upward Bound Program

Website: https://www.dtcc.edu/youth/ubms
Description: Upward Bound is a support program designed to help high school students, whose parents have not graduated from college, learn about and prepare for college. It provides multiple college prep and pathway programs designed to prepare students for the overall college process. There are several programs including counseling, college field trips, and Saturday retreats, as well as a 6-week summer enhancement program that provides classes in English, Mathematics, Science, and Computer Technology. It is located at three Delaware Tech campuses: Georgetown, Wilmington, and Dover. Time commitment depends on how involved students choose to be.
Who Can Apply: Serves students in grades 6-12.
Contact Information:
Georgetown Campus:

Phone: (302) 259-6317

Email: dkorbeog@dtcc.edu (Ditta Korbeogo)
Dover Campus:

Phone: (302) 857-1400

Email: terry-ub@dtcc.edu (CUB Staff)
Wilmington Campus:

Phone: (302) 657-5149

Email: George-UBC@dtcc.edu (Larry Waples)

 

Delaware Youth for Christ

Website: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Delaware-Youth-for-Christ/235059776509284
Description: This program is aimed at helping disadvantaged youths through community support and outreach. Headquartered in Wilmington, it provides support for communities in Wilmington, Belvidere, and Middletown. Time commitment varies depending on personal involvement.
Who Can Apply: Anyone ages 11-19.
Contact Information:
Phone: (302)-995-6937
Email: brettfoester@delawareyfc.org

 

Delaware Youth Leadership Network

Website: http://www.dyln.net/
Description: The Delaware Youth Leadership Network elects students to participate in a 9-month program that includes interaction with inspirational speakers, mentorship, and skill development, focusing on developing the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful future. Scholars will also have an opportunity to build relationships and network with their contemporaries. Monthly meetings are held at various venues in New Castle County which participants are required to attend (6-8:00 pm) along with occasional Sunday afternoon events.
Who Can Apply: Must be a rising junior at a Delaware high school with GPA of 3.0 and above.
Contact Information:
Email: info@dyln.net

 

Emerging Leadership Project (Jewish Federation of Delaware)

Website: http://www.shalomdelaware.org/emerging-leadership-project
Description: The Emerging Leadership Project aims to identify, engage, educate, and prepare the most prominent young Jewish leaders of the community. Participants in the program will be given an opportunity to take important volunteer positions upon completion of the program. Located throughout Delaware. No fees involved.
Who Can Apply: Young Jewish leaders.
Contact Information:
Seth J. Katzen, Chief Executive Officer    
Phone: (302) 427-2100 x822

Kathryn Weissenberger, Office Manager
Phone: (302) 427-2100 x825

 

Envision (LeadAmerica)

Website: http://www.envisionexperience.com
Description: Envision provides several different programs, focused on career exploration and leadership and innovation, aimed at helping students discover their interests and passions so that they may make educated decisions about their future goals. Location varies depending on the program (no Delaware locations), as does the time commitment and any participation "reward."
Who Can Apply: Programs exist for elementary school through college.
Contact Information:
1919 Gallows Road

Suite 700

Vienna, VA 22182
Office of Admission: (703) 584-9380

 

FAME (Forum to Advance Minorities in Engineering)

Website: http://famedelaware.org/
Description: FAME is a pre-college prep and enrichment program intended to motivate women and traditionally underrepresented minority students in grades 7-12 to complete undergraduate degrees in STEM (Science Tech Engineering Math) programs. It offers STEM related classes along with a Robotics Club and a Student Council, as well as a 4-6 week summer enrichment program and a school year extension and enrichment program two Saturdays each month. There is a $200.00 fee per year; scholarships are available based on financial need.
Who Can Apply: Students in grades 7-12.
Contact Information:
2005 Baynard Boulevard

Wilmington, DE 19802

Phone: (302) 777-3254

 

Future Business Leaders of America (Phi Beta Lambda)

Website: http://www.fbla-pbl.org/
Description: FBLA is the largest business career student organization in the world. Members can expect to get involved in classes, events, networking opportunities, and community activities designed to develop their skills as future business leaders. Chapters are found throughout the US (no Delaware location listed). Time commitment varies based on personal involvement and local chapter activities.
Who Can Apply: High school students.
Contact Information:
Email: general@fbla.org

 

Governor’s School for Excellence

Website: http://www.udel.edu/govschool/
Description: The Delaware Governor's School for Excellence is a one-week summer residential program that brings together academically and artistically talented Delaware high school students who have completed their sophomore year. Students live in residence halls on the Newark campus and attend either the academic program--consisting of discussions, lectures, debates, and films revolving around a specific theme--or the visual and performing arts program, which provides tutorial instruction with a noted artist and culminates in a performance or public display of the students' work.
Who Can Apply: Students who are residents of the state of Delaware in their sophomore year and attend a high school in the state of Delaware are nominated to participate through their schools, in a competitive application process.
Contact Information:
Delaware Governor's School for Excellence
University of Delaware Resource Center
850 Library Avenue
Suite 200, Room 206
Newark, DE 19711
Phone: 302-831-8792

 

Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Program

Website: http://www.hoby.org

Description: HOBY holds seminars, workshops, educational programs, and other events designed to develop a passion for leadership, service, and commitment in high school students.
Who Can Apply: High schools nominate a student for the Delaware State Leadership Seminar. 
Contact Information:
Region B: Robert Carpenter

PO Box 8159

Essex Junction, VT 0542-9998

Delaware Specific:

Christopher Talamini-Kelemen (Director of Recruitment/Ambassador Relations)

Ananya Singh (Leadership Seminar Chair)

 

Junior Achievement

Website: http://www.jadelaware.org
Description: Junior Achievement is a national organization designed to teach students financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship through classes and mentorship opportunities. The Delaware program is in Wilmington.
Who Can Apply: Students in grades 5-7 are eligible for the JA Summer Academy in June; JA offers numerous high school programs as well.
Contact Information:
522 South Walnut Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
Phone: 302.654.4510
Email: info@jadelaware.org

 

National Student Leadership Conference

Website: http://www.nslcleaders.org/
Description: NSLC holds events designed to introduce motivated students to different subjects depending on the program (including business, STEM, leadership, government/law, and performing/media arts). Students will spend about a week at a college campus attending seminars and workshops related to leadership as well as their chosen topic. NSLC provides a great way to receive hands-on experience in a chosen subject, meet experts in that field, and interact with other motivated students with the same passions and interests. Programs range from 5-21 days. Tuition fees range from $795.00-$4,995.00.
Who Can Apply: Students in grades 9-11.
Contact Information:
320 W Ohio St, Suite 4W
Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: (312) 322-9999 or 800.994.6752
Email: info@nslcleaders.org

 

Senate Page Program

Website: http://www.senate.gov/reference/reference_index_subjects/Pages_vrd.htm
Description: The Senate Page Program is located in Washington, D.C. Participants act as Senate-sponsored pages and are primarily tasked with delivering correspondence and legislation within the Congressional complex. A Senate page will work within the Senate, House, and the Library of Congress and will have the opportunity to gain firsthand experience on the workings of the federal government. Pages typically serve for one semester or one summer session. Pages will receive a stipend, living quarters, and a meal plan.
Who Can Apply: Applicants must be a high school junior at least 16 years old. Applications go through the local Senator's office.
Contact Information:
Senator Christopher A. Coons
127A Russell Senate Office Building
Washington DC 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5042

 

Senate Youth Program

Website: https://www.doe.k12.de.us/Page/3052
Description: Two student representatives are selected from each state to attend an intensive week-long educational experience and scholarship sponsored by the United States Senate in Washington, D.C. known as Washington Week. Students will gain an in-depth view of the Senate and the federal government overall. Transportation is provided by the Hearst Foundation. Participants receive a $10,000.00 scholarship to the college or university of their choice.
Who Can Apply: A high school junior or senior that actively serves in an elected or appointed capacity in certain student government, civic organizations, or educational organizations is eligible to apply through their high school or by contacting their state selection contacts. Two students and a first and second alternate are then selected by state-level education officials.
Contact Information:
Mr. Preston Shockley
Education Associate, Social Studies

Delaware Department of Education
401 Federal Street, Suite 2
Dover, 19901
Phone: (302) 735-4180
Email: preston.shockley@doe.k12.de.us 

 

TeenSHARP (Successful High-Achieving and Reaching their Potential) Program

Website: http://www.teensharp.org/teensharp-delaware/

Description: TeenSHARP gives low income and minority youth access to leadership

opportunities, college prep, and community involvement, providing a great way

to gain valuable leadership and community involvement experience prior to

starting college. The TeenSHARP College Access Ambassador Training is a four

year program that takes place on Saturdays at the University of Delaware

between September and May.

Who Can Apply: Students in grades 6-12.

Contact Information:

Community Education Building

1200 N. French Street

Wilmington, DE 19801

Email: info@teensharp.org

 

 

Torch Club (Boys & Girls Club of America)

Website: http://www.bgca.org/whatwedo/characterleadership/Pages/TorchClub.aspx
Description: Torch Club is a leadership program focused on four areas: community service, education, health and fitness, and social recreation. 42 locations are spread throughout Delaware. The program offers hands-on experience in community service and leadership. Time commitment varies based on personal participation and club activities. Participants will have an opportunity to win a cash prize between $500.00-$2,500.00 each year from the National Torch Club Project.
Who Can Apply: Membership is reserved for boys and girls ages 11-13. Apply by contacting your local Torch Club.
Contact Information:
National Headquarters
1275 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309-3506
Phone: (404) 487-5700
Email: info@bgca.org

 

 

Youth in Government (YMCA)

Website: http://www.ymcade.org/programs/youth-in-government  
Description: In YIG, students learn the democratic process through participation in an active model government. They will have the chance to interact with the legislative process through multiple roles.
Who Can Apply: Any high school student may apply by attending the first meeting for the local delegation they are interested in or by contacting the local delegation directly. There is also a program for middle school students (grades 6-8).
Contact Information:
State Director: Sam Sachs
Phone: 302-254-9622
Email: ssachs@ymcade.org

 

Have questions or know of additional student community and leadership opportunities for Delawareans? Please contact J Francis at j_francis@coons.senate.gov or (302) 573-6345.