Wassmuth Youth Leadership Program

Wassmuth Youth Leadership Program

Students of all ages have always participated in the Center’s programs, whether in the Memorial, as service projects, or at community venues like the Morrison Center.  In 2023, the Center decided to build on the previous “Students in Action” group to create the Wassmuth Youth Leadership program (WYLP).  The WYLP is a yearlong learning and service opportunity for young people in 9-12 grades in the Treasure Valley that explores the connection between addressing human rights issues and leadership skills and qualities. 

Students begin the year with shared participant-selected readings, movies, podcasts, etc., on a variety of human rights themes to deepen their learning and understanding of various issues.  The group meets twice a month for a year.  In the second half of the year, students create service projects that they hope will positively impact their community. Projects in the first cohort focused on issues of housing, women’s health, human rights education for kids, literacy, and more.  WYLP members also support Center programs and events throughout the year.

The second cohort started in May 2024 and includes 32 students from local high schools.  Several students from last year returned for a second round, so we are excited to see them step into leadership within the group this year.

In 2024, WYLP is piloting an interesting partnership with the Kaleidoscope Project, a youth leadership and empowerment program based in Burkina Faso.  The students have been connecting virtually to share learning and practices with each other.  We are eager to see where this partnership may lead!