Call Today: +1 (719) 435-0422
Shaping the Leaders of Tomorrow
WDC’s Youth Development Programs are designed to empower young individuals with the skills, mentorship, and experiences they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through a combination of entrepreneurial training, leadership development, financial literacy, and wellness initiatives, we equip youth with the knowledge and resources to navigate their personal and professional journeys with confidence. Our programs foster creativity, resilience, and problem-solving, ensuring that participants gain real-world skills that prepare them for success. By providing access to supportive mentors, hands-on learning opportunities, and a strong community network, we help young people grow into confident, capable leaders ready to make a lasting impact.
Investing in the Next Generation
At WDC, we believe that investing in youth is essential for building a stronger, more sustainable future. Our Youth Development Programs provide young people with the tools, mentorship, and real-world experiences they need to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and grow into successful, purpose-driven adults. By focusing on both personal and professional growth, we empower youth to realize their full potential.
These programs help youth explore their passions, build resilience, and gain practical skills through engaging in collaborative projects, hands-on learning, and mentorship. Our initiatives are designed to not only improve career prospects but also to strengthen the personal growth of each participant. We connect youth with mentors and peers who support them in overcoming challenges and exploring new opportunities, creating a community that encourages personal development, teamwork, and mutual support.
Through our work, we aim to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset that equips youth to lead with confidence and creativity. By providing a solid foundation for success, we help them dream big, think critically, and act with purpose. Our Youth Development Programs are designed to inspire and equip young individuals with the skills and resources to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.
Explore Our Youth Development Programs
Youth Development Programs
Inspiring Growth Through Empowerment and Opportunity
Youth Development Programs at WDC equip young individuals with the skills, mentorship, and experiences needed to build confidence and achieve success. Through interactive workshops, hands-on learning, and leadership development, participants gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship, career pathways, and financial literacy. By fostering creativity, critical thinking, and resilience, we empower youth to take charge of their future and turn their aspirations into reality.
Programs Under This Category
Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP):
Equipping youth with essential skills, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and prepare for future success. This program fosters creativity, problem-solving, and leadership development, helping participants gain the confidence to launch their own ventures or excel in their chosen career paths. Through interactive workshops, real-world business challenges, and guidance from experienced professionals, youth learn financial literacy, innovation, and strategic thinking. By providing the right tools and support, YEP empowers the next generation to thrive in both personal and professional life.
Sugary Stop: A Pop-Up Lemonade Stand
A hands-on business experience where youth take full control of a pop-up lemonade stand—from preparing drinks and greeting customers to managing sales and rotating roles. Participants gain real-world skills in entrepreneurship, customer service, teamwork, and money management. Each shift includes a stipend, giving youth both valuable job experience and their first taste of earnings. With music, laughter, and real responsibilities, this program builds confidence, sparks creativity, and offers a fun, energetic introduction to business ownership.
Youth Wellness Program (YWP):
Advocating for holistic health, this program promotes mental health awareness and physical activity among youth. Through workshops, physical fitness activities, and group discussions, students build mental resilience, develop healthy habits, and learn how well-being contributes to long-term success.
Youth Mentorship Program (YMP):
Providing young individuals with one-on-one mentorship from experienced professionals and community leaders. This program focuses on career guidance, personal development, and goal setting, ensuring that youth are supported in their journey to achieve their full potential.
Tailored Programs for Every Stage of Growth
At WDC, we recognize that each stage of a young person’s development comes with unique opportunities and challenges. That’s why we’ve designed age-specific programs that cater to the needs of elementary, middle, high school students, and young adults transitioning into their careers. By meeting participants where they are, we provide the right tools, mentorship, and experiences to guide them toward success at every step of their journey.
Discover Our Age-Specific Programs
Explore Programs Tailored to Every Age Group
WDC’s Youth Development Programs are designed to meet young individuals at every stage of their journey, providing age-specific opportunities that foster growth, skill-building, and confidence. From foundational programs that introduce essential life skills to advanced initiatives that prepare youth for leadership, entrepreneurship, and career success, each program is tailored to meet the unique needs of different age groups. Whether developing financial literacy, exploring business ideas, or gaining hands-on experience, our programs ensure that every young participant receives the mentorship, education, and support needed to thrive.
Programs for Age-Specific Groups
Junior Entrepreneurs Program (Elementary School):
Introducing entrepreneurial concepts to elementary-aged students in a fun, interactive environment. This program uses age-appropriate activities to teach foundational skills such as teamwork, creativity, and basic financial literacy, sparking early interest in leadership and business.
Young Innovators Program (Middle School):
Encouraging creativity and problem-solving, this program empowers middle school students to think outside the box and develop innovative ideas. Through hands-on workshops and group projects, participants learn critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills while exploring the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
Aspiring Leaders Program (High School):
Focused on preparing high school students for their next steps, this program builds entrepreneurial skills, leadership qualities, and career-readiness. Participants engage in business simulations, mentorship opportunities, and workshops designed to help them identify their passions and set actionable goals for the future.
Overachievers Program (Transitioning Graduates):
Supporting high school graduates and college students as they transition into the workforce, this program provides career development resources, networking opportunities, and one-on-one guidance. Participants gain access to resume workshops, interview preparation, and internships to build confidence and secure sustainable careers.
YEP Summer Camp 2025 – Your Adventure Starts Here!
Unleash Your Potential, Make Lifelong Memories!
Are you ready for an unforgettable summer? The YEP Summer Camp 2025 is designed to empower, inspire, and connect youth through a one-of-a-kind immersive experience filled with adventure, learning, and fun!
This week-long camp is packed with exciting activities, personal development workshops, and opportunities to build friendships that last a lifetime. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, developing leadership skills, or engaging in hands-on learning experiences, you’ll leave feeling stronger, more confident, and ready to take on the world!
🏕️ Camp Details:
📅 Dates: June-August
📍 Location: Denver, CO
👥 Who Can Join? Youth ages 8-18 (Campers will be placed in age-appropriate groups to ensure activities are engaging, safe, and tailored to their developmental stage.)
💰 Cost: $250/Student (Compatible with the My Spark Denver Card)
What to Expect:
🔹 Outdoor Adventures: Sailing, kayaking, and ropes courses
🔹 Team Challenges: Archery, sports, and survival skills training
🔹 Creative Workshops: Art, music, and storytelling
🔹 STEM & Entrepreneurship: Hands-on projects and leadership exercises
🔹 Wellness & Mindfulness: Yoga, meditation, and personal growth sessions
🔹 Evening Bonfires & Campfire Stories: Unplug, connect, and reflect under the stars
BONUS: Special guest speakers and surprise activities!
What Past Campers Say:
“This camp changed my life! I made new friends, tried things I never thought I could do, and left feeling more confident in myself!” – Alex, 2024 Camper
“I learned so much about leadership and teamwork. The activities were so fun, and the campfire nights were unforgettable!” – Jasmine, 2024 Camper
Don’t Miss Out – Apply Today!
Spots are limited, and applications fill up FAST! Don’t miss your chance to be part of something extraordinary this summer.
🎯 Apply Now to Secure Your Spot!
📩 Questions? Contact us at info@sugarystop.yourwdc.org or call 1 (719) 435-0422
🌿 Join us for a summer of adventure, growth, and fun – YEP Summer Camp 2025 is waiting for YOU!
Empowering Youth to Lead the Way
“Our Youth Development Programs are about more than just education—they’re about building confidence, sparking creativity, and giving young people the tools they need to succeed. By investing in youth, we are investing in the future of our communities.” — Maya Wheeler, Executive Director
Support the Next Generation Today
Your contribution can make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals by providing them with the mentorship, education, and resources they need to succeed. By donating to WDC’s Youth Development Programs, you help create opportunities for aspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to gain critical skills, build confidence, and pursue their dreams. Every donation fuels programs that equip youth with financial literacy, career training, and hands-on learning experiences. Join us in shaping a brighter future—give today and invest in the next generation of changemakers.
