Youth Leadership Experience
Presented by SONorCal Youth Activation Committee
We’re excited to present the first-ever Youth Leadership Experience (YLE) during our 2025 Summer Games! Students in grades 9–12 will have the opportunity to attend a kickoff dinner ahead of the Opening Ceremony on Friday evening (June 27) and gain hands-on volunteer experience and explore Special Olympics programs on Saturday (June 28). This is a two-day opportunity to gain real-world leadership and volunteer experience, learn how Special Olympics operates behind the scenes, and be part of an unforgettable weekend.
YLE Breakdown
Who? Six facilitators from our Youth Activation Committee (YAC), and 20 high school student participants from throughout our footprint.
What? Over the course of two days, students will participate in leadership training, learn more about Special Olympics, and gain hands-on volunteer experience.
When? An orientation dinner & training will take place on Friday, June 27, at 5:00pm. On Saturday, June 28, students will volunteer at swimming from 8:00am – 12:00pm, followed by a group “scavenger hunt” throughout campus.
Where? The Friday dinner will take place in Leavey Center, and the Saturday volunteer shift and scavenger hunt will be across the Santa Clara University campus.
Why? The goal of the YLE is to help NorCal students to become leaders and volunteers within the Special Olympics movement. Students will network, gain hands on experience, and hopefully sign up to become coaches, volunteers, and future YAC members.
Make friends, get active and be a part of something SPECIAL!
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