8th grade L.E.A.D Leadership Empowerment & Development
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Before registering, please note that this specialized membership opportunity serves as a leadership development program and includes a highly selective application and interview process. Review all requirements carefully before applying. Only serious applicants are encouraged to apply.
The L.E.A.D. program is designed to develop leadership skills for 8th-grade students through hands-on, supervised experiences at Andover Youth Services. Participants take active roles in after-school and AYS-related programming by assisting staff, supporting activities, and creating a positive, engaging environment for younger students. Interested youth may apply to join for their 8th-grade school year. Applicants should understand that an interview is part of the process, and acceptance is competitive as space is limited to ensure participants receive the best support possible. Because of this, registration will be automatically wait listed until the entire application packet is received and the interview and approval process is completed.
L.E.A.D participants serve as role models, demonstrating leadership, responsibility, and integrity while fostering meaningful mentoring relationships with younger members. AYS staff and programming help emerging leaders build confidence, soft skills, and community involvement- laying the foundation for future leadership opportunities. Participants remain in a volunteer role and receive ongoing mentorship through both formal and informal check-ins with staff, as well as 4 developmental workshops, helping them gain the tools and experience to potentially take on leadership roles in the future. Accepted youth will be provided with L.E.A.D shirts as well as certificates for their completed service hours.
Please ensure that any youth who applies has an understanding of the program expectations and can demonstrate a desire to be a positive role model while assisting in AYS programming and supporting staff.
Availability and scheduling are determined as part of the application and interview process; however, participants should be able to commit to at least one to two days per week and maintain a consistent schedule through the school year. We are happy to work around academic and sports commitments.
As participants graduate and age out of the L.E.A.D. Program, they may apply to become Volunteer Mentors in 9th grade, with the opportunity to seek employment with AYS at age 16, dependent upon programming requirements. Completion of L.E.A.D does not guarantee a leadership or employment role beyond the program.
Interested students can download the L.E.A.D. Application Packet from (INSERT LINK) beginning on May 1st, 2026. Applicants should thoughtfully complete the entire packet on their own and return it by the November 1st deadline. For extenuating circumstances, please contact our office. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
More information can be found in the L.E.A.D Application Packet or by contacting AYS staff directly through AYS@Andoverma.us.com
Important Dates
Application Available Online – May 1st
Application Deadline – October 9th
Interviews – November and December
Acceptance & Agreement Letters Sent – December and January
Orientation – Session January check date
Program Start – December and January
4 L.E.A.D Workshops – January, February, March, April dates TBD
Middle School - Youth Center Membership
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Membership |
Ages |
Grades |
Fees |
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Log In
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School Year 2026-2027
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N/A
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5 - 8
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$150.00 Res
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