Youth Allies offers three FREE training programs for young people ages 13-19 from minority and other diverse backgrounds.

The Leadership Institute: An intensive leadership training program for 35 youth from Native, Hispano, Latino Immigrant, Anglo and other diverse backgrounds that takes place from October-May and meets one weekend per month. The Leadership Institute focuses on developing your personal leadership style and approach, your ability to work across cultures, and your environmental and social awareness. Trainings include team building activities, outdoor education, popular education, and hands-on project work.

WE ARE CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2009-2010 INSTITUTE. APPLY TODAY! 

The Youth Advisory Board to the Sustainability Commission: Both a training program and a leadership placement, the Youth Advisory Board is a nine-person youth Board that works closely with the City of Santa Fe's Sustainability Commission to develop policies that improve our community's long-term health and to implement Santa Fe's Sustainability Plan. The Plan outlines how our City can reduce its carbon footprint and be a model green city for others to follow. The Board meets one-two Thursdays per month. Board members will receive training in sustainability and community development and have the opportunity to work with Commissioners, the City Council, and the Mayor. The Chair of the Youth Advisory Board is a voting member of the Mayor appointed Sustainability Commission.

SEATS ARE CURRENTLY AVAILABLE, APPLY TODAY!

The Organizing Program: An advanced training program for 10 youth who have successfully graduated from the Leadership Institute or served on the Youth Advisory Board and have demonstrated strong leadership capacity. Youth Allies Organizers receive an additional 200 hours of training and individualized mentorship as they educate others about environmental sustainability and social justice through peer education workshops and public education campaigns. Organizers develop and lead Youth Allies' Community Improvement Projects and Youth Action Network. The group meets every Tuesday and Thursday from September-May and weekends as needed. Upon successful completion of the program, Organizers receive $1,000.00.

Whether you join one of our training programs or sign-up for the Network, there are many ways to help make a difference here in Santa Fe and the world RIGHT NOW. We hope you'll JOIN US!