The program educates these students about current and future community needs. It prepares them for constructive leadership, committed involvement, and responsible participation in the future of Huntsville and Madison County. The program works to break down racial, cultural and social barriers that exist in today's society. It also creates an interest in community and volunteer activities and teaches youth about local, state and federal issues that affect our area. Students complete an eight-month program, which includes an opening and closing retreat and six program days.
Selection is based on the total population of grades nine through twelve at each high school.
Two participants are selected from each high school for the first 1000 students, plus one student for every 1000 students thereafter. The class size typically approaches 40 students. Youth Leadership is provided free of charge to participants. Local businesses, city and county school foundations, and Leadership alumni fund the program.