LFS Youth Class

Leadership for Five Seasons

Youth LFS

The Youth Leadership for Five Seasons Program is comprised of 30+ Cedar Rapids Metro area high school students each year that demonstrate leadership qualities and have a concern for their community. Students step outside of their school day approximately 1 Wednesday a month and become acquainted with community needs, opportunities, problems, and resources. They experience interaction with community leaders, decision makers, various career paths, and students from other area high schools. Through the generosity of alumni and corporate sponsors, Youth LFS is offered at no cost to participants, their schools, or their families, ensuring that all qualified students—regardless of financial circumstances—can access this transformative experience.

Participants take part in an overnight retreat, 7-themed industry days, and a service project day prior to their evening graduation. See below for an outline of what’s involved throughout the 7 month program:

• Overnight Retreat (August)
• History Day
• Agriculture Day
• Nonprofit Advocacy Day
• Arts & Culture Day
• Entrepreneur & Business Day
• Health & Wellness Day
• Government Day
• Class Project Day & Graduation (March)

Youth Applications

Students interested in Youth LFS from qualifying high schools must apply in the spring of their sophomore year through their school’s guidance office. Applications open after spring break and are due to the guidance office by or before the first week in May. (Check with your guidance office for specific deadlines, application materials, and letter of recommendation guidelines.) Individuals selected are notified sometime in May and participate August-March of their junior year. In the event that a selected student cannot commit to program dates, alternates will be notified.

Sign Up for Youth LFS Virtual Info Session – Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (6:30-7:30pm)

Congratulations to the LFS Youth Class of 2026!

Thanks to LFS Youth Supporting Sponsors