Our Program

Criteria for Participation in the YLC Program

1. A strong commitment to community service and to supporting local nonprofit organizations
2. Committed to attending all YLC training sessions
3. Able to participate in a one-year board internship with a nonprofit organization
4. Able to secured the approval of your supervisor to miss work and fully attend and participate in weekly training sessions
5. Have the ability to pay class participation fee (or to secure payment through your employer) 

Program Requirements:

Young Leaders Council strives to maintain a strong cross section of individuals from diverse backgrounds, occupations, and experiences in order to enhance the program and meet the growing needs of our nonprofit community. Preference will be given to those individuals with previous volunteer experience, a demonstrated commitment to making an impact for the Middle Tennessee community, and the ability to fully commit to participating in the full 11-week training program.

Once the application is submitted, all applicants will be required to conduct a brief interview with the designated YLC representative to receive full consideration. Once the application is submitted, a link to sign up for one of three potential interview dates will be provided. Applicants may also submit a brief letter of recommendation from their immediate supervisor or a YLC alumni to strengthen their application, however, this is optional.  There is a non-refundable program fee associated with participation in the YLC training program. This fee must be paid prior to the start of training unless previous payment arrangements have been made and confirmed with the YLC Executive Director or Program Manager. The applicant is fully responsible for payment of the required program fee. Each applicant is encouraged to consult with their employer regarding the possibility of receiving financial support for the cost of the program prior to submitting their application.

Attendance is required at all training sessions. The participant must notify the YLC Program Manager or Executive Director via email if a session is going to be missed. A missed session may be made up by attending with another cohort for that same topic or the participant may take advantage of their one “missed class pass” for the semester. If two or more sessions are missed without prior approval, the participant will be advised to discontinue the program. Please note that all YLC program fees are non-refundable. Please be sure to review the training schedule and confirm your ability to fully participate prior to applying. 

With the exception of members of the Junior League Cohort, all YLC program participant must complete a one-year internship on the board of a nonprofit organization. It is suggested that all training sessions be completed prior to the start of the board internship.

If a participant needs to withdraw from the training program due to an unexpected emergency or life changing event, the participant may be offered an opportunity to transition their admission to the immediate next semester, however, if the participant is unable to complete training in the semester following their initial admission, this opportunity will be voided and the individual will be required to restart the application process. Program fees are non-transferable between participants.

We look forward to hearing from you.