| The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) is a unique program providing constructive alternatives to gangs, drugs and other serious problems facing low-income children and their families in high risk neighborhoods.
The mission of the YLA is to motivate selected young people from Illinois Community College District 509 who are economically at risk to stay in school, realize their full potential, and become productive leaders and role models in their communities.
Students are selected during the 2nd semester of 6th grade and begin Academy activities at the start of 7th grade. The program continues through 12th grade and ends with two years free tuition to Elgin Community College. Approximately 20 students are selected based on their applications, recommendations, family interviews and availability of program funds.
Students participate in the Academy for approximately 2 to 4 hours per week from September through May, continuing during the summer months with camp and others activities. Cadets also participate in Elgin's July 4 parade.
YLA offices are located at 51 South Spring Street, Elgin, Illinois 60120 on the Fountain Campus of Elgin Community College. Saturday class sessions are held at the ECC main campus.
YLA Office Hours
- Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
847-214-6910 or 847-214-6965
- No office hours on Friday or Saturday
Questions about the program may be directed to wscott@elgin.edu | 
Youth Leadership Academy
