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In the Lead – Community Program

Join on of our upcoming online Parent & Guardian Info Sessions!

We are hosting two Parent & Guardian info sessions so you can learn more, ask questions, and see if In the Lead is a good fit for your teen. 

Info Session Dates:

  • Wednesday January 21st (6:00pm – 7:00pm) – Online
  • Thursday, January 29th (6:00pm – 7:00pm) – Online

To register for an info session, please email Katey Larson at:
klarson@cyjs.ca

Registration for Spring 2026 is NOW OPEN.
Find the registration link at the bottom of this page, or by clicking here

In the Lead is an innovative strength-based leadership and mentorship program for young people ages 14 – 18 who may be struggling to see, use and believe in their natural leadership abilities. 

In the Lead is a weekly, 90 minute program that works on the leadership capacities of young people, develops critical coping strategies, builds positive self-concept and strengthens their resiliency and confidence. 

Because we know that the biggest difference between thriving and just surviving is having caring adults in their lives, all Young Leaders in the program are paired with a Coach Mentor. Our Coaches are volunteers from the community and our corporate partners who want to support the healthy development of Calgary’s next generation of leaders.

This program may hit capacity – we will reach out to the registrant to confirm participation.

Learn more about our learning sessions and curriculum

Sessions cover topics such as:

  • Discovering our strengths
  • Defining our values and how they inform our decision-making
  • What and who influences us
  • Overcoming hard and stressful things
  • Creating positive change in our communities

We also incorporate 2 events that provide the youth opportunities to give back and volunteer.

Learn more about In the Lead Coaches

Coaches…

  • Are all volunteers from the Calgary community
  • Go through a rigorous screening process including police checks, interviews and reference checks
  • Go through intensive training
  • Work closely with the professional In the Lead team to ensure a successful experience for youth
  • Communication and connection with Coaches is at the discretion of the youth
IN THE LEAD - COMMUNITY PROGRAM DETAILS

AGES: 14 – 18

WHEN: Once a week, every Thursday from February 19 – June 4
(Excluding March 26)

TIME: 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. 
(Doors will open at 3:30 – In the Lead will provide snacks and a safe space to hang out until the session begins!)

WHERE: Calgary Youth Justice Office — 620 7th Ave SW (directly on the train line)

TRANSPORTATION: We are directly across from the 4th Street station and can provide transit tickets to any youth that may need that. Please contact us if there are any barriers around transportation.

WHAT: This is not a drop-in program. Youth who are registered are required to commit to the 14 weeks of programming. Youth don’t need to bring anything with them except a willingness to participate in a pro-social, safe way for others! In the Lead will provide snacks and program materials.

WHO: Amazing young people from across Calgary and our professional In the Lead facilitators who can’t wait to build a relationship with young people you care about. In the Lead has been working with youth in Calgary since 2011 and has given over 1300 young people the chance to transform their views of themselves, their communities and their futures.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. We are happy to connect with you and the youth you are nominating.

Contact Information:
Katey Larson (Senior Program Manager – In the Lead)
klarson@cyjs.ca