Help Send a Leader to CLS and change their life.

Justin’s CLS adventure began in 2010 as a 12-year-old as a 6th grader. He was really excited because, as one of the classes he takes during the week, he got to take Learn to Splash; a class that teaches the basics of a variety of swimming strokes, how to play water polo, how to do synchronized swimming and basic life-saving skills. He didn’t know how to swim but was very interested in learning. He had such a great time that he took it every year of the 7 years he attended Central Leaders School.

The confidence he gained from taking Learn to Splash inspired him to try out for his school swim team, train to become a lifeguard, and eventually get a job at his local YMCA lifeguarding. He says his experience was life-changing. “I had been through a lot, I grew up on the streets and the Leaders program kept me away from all that.” Justin received a scholarship to attend Harris-Stowe State University and is pursuing a degree in criminal justice.

Justin, like so many other leaders, could experience Leaders School because he received financial support from the Alumni Scholarship Fund, a fund that supports students who want to attend CLS but need assistance getting there. This fund would not exist without your generous support.

The Alumni Scholarship Fund typically gives away $4,000 per year to students in need of financial aid for tuition. Your generous support will enable future leaders from all backgrounds to attend CLS and experience why Leaders call this school “their home away from home.”

Thank you for enabling students like Justin to continue to be able to come to CLS and experience life-transforming experiences.