Supporting Young Leaders: Insights and Challenges

Posted by Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement on July 15, 2025

The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) Young Leaders Learning Community became a springboard for civic learning and action.

In 2024, CIRCLE launched the inaugural Young Leaders Learning Community (YLLC), a yearlong program supporting 12 young people (ages 16-29) who are leading change in their communities. Through skill-building workshops, youth-led trainings, and direct funding for community projects, the YLLC created a space for young leaders to grow their civic impact, connect with one another, and inform CIRCLE’s ongoing research and practice.

Like voting and other forms of civic engagement, youth activism and leadership are shaped by structural barriers, access to resources, and support systems. Programs like the YLLC can help address these inequities by providing funding, training, and a sense of belonging, especially for young people who are often excluded from traditional pathways to leadership.

Learn more and read the full report.


More in "New Resources"


Stay Current in Philly's Higher Education and Nonprofit Sector

We compile a weekly email with local events, resources, national conferences, calls for proposals, grant, volunteer and job opportunities in the higher education and nonprofit sectors.