The Emerging Leaders Challenge is a 6-week leadership development program for boys & young men of color to gain hands-on professional experience. The challenge allows for young men entering grades 9-12 to become temporary YMCA employees throughout the course of the challenge as they work together as individuals and as a team to plan a culminating community event. The main areas of focus will include Marketing, Finance, Fund Development, and Human Resources. 

YMCA Leadership will use a matrix to determine weekly winner projects. The overall winning project will receive an end of project bonus. Individuals will receive an introduction to the YMCA of Rock River Valley, meeting leaders within the association as well as leaders in the Rockford community. Additional time will be spent engaging with our CEO and COO. BYMOC Emerging Leaders will have opportunities to job shadow, learn skills related to the area of focus, and participate in a weekly challenge presentation.

Applications for the challenge are due June 7. The challenge will run July 8 - August 17.

First Place Team:
$500/person
Second Place Team:
$300/person