What is Youth Leadership Somerset (YLS) and why should I participate?

• YLS is a nine-month community leadership program for high school students who want to be informed, engaged, connected leaders in Somerset County, NJ. 
• This program provides you with
• a knowledge of formal and informal decision-making channels in Somerset County
• a broader view of critical community issues
• an introduction to key community leaders and an opportunity to network
• an opportunity to practice and refine critical leadership skills and competencies

Who can apply to YLS?

• Applications are accepted from students entering grades 10 through 12 who live in Somerset County, NJ.
• Youth may attend public, charter, private, or home schools, as long as they live in Somerset County. 

When does YLS take place and what will I learn?

• The program year runs from September to May and sessions (classes) take place one Saturday a month, typically between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
• The calendar of session dates and topics will be listed with the application materials.
• All sessions are held in Somerset County, and most sessions are in Somerville.

What does the Youth Leadership Somerset program expect of participants?

• We expect participants to be able to commit the time required to make this a successful experience for all involved.  This is a highly competitive program and many applicants are turned down due to class size limitations.
• Parental approval is required.
• Attendance at the first session in September is mandatory to continue in the program.  Participants must meet an attendance requirement to receive a certificate of graduation.
• In addition to your desire to learn more about Somerset County and meet great leaders, we expect that you will want to stretch your comfort zone while also having fun and making new friends along the way.

Who sponsors Youth Leadership Somerset and is there a fee to participate?

• Youth Leadership Somerset was created by the adults who participated in Leadership Somerset in 2000.  Since then, the program has been run by county staff and volunteers.
•  The program is generously supported by the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners and is currently offered at no charge to participants.
• Some sessions include lunch, while others require participants to bring their own lunch.

Who facilitates the sessions?

• YLS sessions are facilitated by a group of adult volunteers, some of whom are Somerset County employees and others are graduates of the Leadership Somerset (adult) program.
• In accordance with Somerset County's policy, all persons who facilitate the YLS sessions have passed a criminal background check.  There are always at least two adult facilitators at each session; typically there are three or four.

Can I see the program in action before I apply?

• Unfortunately, no.  However, it's highly likely that there are YLS alumni in your school - ask your guidance counselor for additional information.