WDC Youth Development Program (Middle School)

Building skills, confidence, and future-ready leaders.

Our Youth Development Program empowers middle school students with hands-on learning in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, creative media, and workforce readiness—all delivered through an engaging 8-week hybrid curriculum.

Now Accepting Sign-Ups for the FIRST Spring 2026 Cohort
 (Seasonal cohorts will run every Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.)

Join the Spring 2026 Cohort

Program Overview

Students participate in weekly virtual sessions, optional in-person workshops, and self-paced lessons through the WDC Youth Portal. Using a blend of Junior Achievement curriculum and WDC-designed activities, youth explore:

  • Entrepreneurship
  • Workforce readiness
  • Financial foundations
  • Creative media

Each student finishes with a Certificate of Completion and a starter portfolio of projects.

Program Tracks

Entrepreneurship – Idea development, JA curriculum, simple business project
Workforce Readiness – Resume basics, communication, leadership, mock interviews
Financial Foundations – Saving, budgeting, debit card literacy, money habits
Creative Media – Intro to filming, editing, digital storytelling, simple media project

What Students Gain

  • A WDC Certificate of Completion
  • Confidence and communication skills
  • Financial awareness
  • Entrepreneurial and creative thinking
  • A project-based portfolio

Spring 2026 Cohort Details

  • Scholarships: Limited, need-based
  • Duration: 8 Weeks
  • Format: Hybrid
  • Ages: 11–13
  • Enrollment: Open Now

Registration

Parents can register their student using the link below.
After enrollment, families receive a confirmation email and Youth Portal access.

Register for the Spring 2026 Cohort

FAQ

Ages? 11–13 (middle school)
Materials? Only a device for virtual sessions
Mid-season entry? Not available
Workshops? Optional, in-person enrichment

Youth-Led Social Enterprise Spotlight

Sugary Stop is WDC’s youth-led social enterprise, where students gain hands-on exposure to teamwork, communication, customer service, pricing, and money management. Through running a lemonade and community event stand, youth build confidence and leadership skills while practicing real-world entrepreneurship in a supportive environment.

Learn More