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Empowering the
Next Generation of Leaders

Our Youth Leadership Academy is a dynamic afterschool program that empowers both Middle and High School students to explore and develop essential leadership skills. Through engaging visits to local businesses and community organizations, participants gain firsthand insights from industry professionals on what effective leadership looks like across diverse fields. Middle Schoolers build a strong foundation in leadership through interactive learning and mentorship, while High School students deepen their understanding of advanced leadership competencies and strategies for success. This immersive experience not only enriches academic and personal growth but also inspires young leaders to make a positive impact in their communities.

Watch BVYLA grads reflect on what leadership really means.

LEEP Pantry

Led by: Paige, Lara, Emmanuelle, and Gabriela The main purpose of this project was to create a certain type of community service to help out the people around us. As a group of 4 girls Ela, Paige, Lara and Emanuelle we became with the idea to help a food pantry in Milbury by providing canned goods from our friends and community. This was an incredible opportunity for our community as one, because everyone helped for the better of others.

STEM Unfiltered

Led by: Abbigail, Aleeza, Arjun, Isabella, Kayla, Mason, Mehreen, Mya & Samuel This year's middle school student leaders embarked on a journey of leadership exploration, delving into diverse avenues and gaining multifaceted insights. Their culminating project saw them forge a meaningful partnership between the Blackstone Valley Education Foundation and Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts Grafton for a STEM Unfiltered event. On May 8th, the students had the unique opportunity to tour the veterinary campus and provide valuable feedback to the event organizers. Their involvement extended to shaping the event itself, as they contributed to the selection of activities and the development of the agenda. Looking ahead, these young leaders will actively participate in the event by volunteering their time to assist with student check-in and serve as welcoming greeters.

Steps for A Purpose

Led by: Seth, Ariv, Sandhrika and Sloka Steps for a Purpose chose to do a walk-a-thon (the Jimmy Fund Walk) to raise money for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, an organization dedicated to helping cancer patients through research and care. Steps for a Purpose is incredibly grateful for the support we received and the money we raised to contribute to this important cause.

The Happy Place

Led by: Genevieve and Hadasyah We chose to hold a clothing drive in our neighborhood, utilizing our church, school, and familial community. Our goal was to raise money and awareness for the non-profit “The Happy Place”, an organization supporting disabled adults. By gathering clothing, we had the opportunity to grow our experience in leadership while creating relationships and helping people in need.

The Blankets and Baking Benefit

Led by: Lily, Finn and Gabe We believe it is everyone’s responsibility to help the less fortunate. So we decided to extend our hands to benefit those in need while growing in our leadership skills. We went about this by hosting a blanket drive and bake sale in the Blackstone area to raise money for people in need.

A Greener Grafton

Led by: Will and Neil Grafton High School uses a lot of energy and produces waste. Simple changes can lower its impact. Going green helps the planet and saves money.

Thank You for Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders

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Student-Led Community Projects

As part of the Blackstone Valley Youth Leadership Academy (BVYLA), students design and lead projects that address real needs in their schools and communities. These initiatives reflect each student’s unique voice and commitment to making a difference—turning ideas into impact through collaboration, creativity, and leadership.

Explore the projects below to see their work in action.

Student Testimonials

 

“I loved being able to hear from Kyle and hearing his perspective on leadership. It was engaging and exciting to listen to. You could tell Kyle was very well organized and up to date with all his business stuff. He also shared about his friends and how they helped him grow in the beginning which really stood out to me. It was interesting to get a specific look into business after/throughout college and how leadership can apply to that. I didn’t know the amount of time and effort it takes to get a business going and keep things moving.”

-Genevieve, Grade 11

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