Youth Development Programs
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. From entrepreneurial training to wellness and mentorship initiatives, we provide opportunities for youth to grow into confident, capable leaders.
Start Your Journey with Youth Development Programs
Join Us in Shaping the Future as a Mentor
Discover the impact of mentoring the next generation of bright, ambitious youth.
Investing in the Next Generation
At WDC, we believe that investing in youth is essential for creating a brighter future. Our Youth Development Programs equip young individuals with the tools and opportunities to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and foster a lifelong entrepreneurial spirit. By providing hands-on experiences, mentorship, and wellness initiatives, we empower youth to turn their potential into reality.
These programs focus on preparing youth for personal and professional success. Whether it’s learning how to run a small business, building mental and physical resilience, or receiving one-on-one mentorship, we aim to create an environment where young individuals can explore their passions, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals.
Through our Youth Development Programs, we strive to create opportunities that inspire young individuals to dream big and think creatively. By engaging in real-world experiences and collaborative projects, participants not only develop practical skills but also learn the value of teamwork, perseverance, and adaptability. These programs are designed to nurture a growth mindset, empowering youth to tackle challenges with confidence and a sense of purpose.
Our commitment to youth development extends beyond skill-building; we focus on fostering a sense of community and belonging. By connecting young people with mentors, peers, and role models, we create a supportive network that encourages collaboration and mutual growth. This holistic approach ensures that every participant leaves our programs with not only the tools for success but also the resilience, relationships, and inspiration to make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
Make a Difference: Volunteer with WDC
At WDC, volunteers are the backbone of our mission to empower youth and strengthen communities. By sharing your time, expertise, and energy, you can directly contribute to shaping the futures of aspiring entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers. Whether you’re mentoring young minds, assisting with hands-on workshops, or supporting events, your involvement will leave a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
Volunteering with WDC isn’t just about giving back—it’s about becoming part of a vibrant community dedicated to creating opportunities and driving positive change. As a volunteer, you’ll have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, develop meaningful relationships, and experience the joy of making a difference. Together, we can build a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Explore Our Youth Development Programs
Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP):
Sugary Stop: A Pop-Up Lemonade Stand:
Youth Wellness Program (YWP)
Youth Mentorship Program (YMP)
Youth Development Programs
Inspiring Growth Through Empowerment and Opportunity
Programs Under This Category
- Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP):
Equipping youth with skills and mentorship opportunities to develop their entrepreneurial mindset and thrive in both personal and professional life.
- Sugary Stop: A Pop-Up Lemonade Stand:
A real-world business experience where students learn every step of running a business. From creating their product, bottling, and labeling to marketing and selling their lemonade at pop-up events, participants gain valuable hands-on experience in business operations, teamwork, and customer engagement. This program fosters creativity, confidence, and a strong entrepreneurial foundation.
- 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
Junior Entrepreneurs Program (Elementary School)
Young Innovators Program (Middle School)
Aspiring Leaders Program (High School)
Overachievers Program (Transitioning Graduates)
Explore Programs Tailored to Every Age Group
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