African American Youth Leadership Conference

A nonprofit organization

Be a part of what the AAYLC is doing to help hundreds of youth to become diverse leaders in their communities and beyond!

Testimonials

Student quotes from previous conferences:
"To me the African American Youth Leadership conference means preparation for the future and a better tomorrow for young African Americans."
"To me the African American Youth Leadership conference means that I can be a leader wherever I go."
"The African American Youth Leadership...gives you a chance to find the leader in you, make new friends, and explore different activities that teach you about different opportunities that you can have in life."

Parent/educator quotes from previous conferences:
"The AAYLC means youth empowerment, youth direction, and it also means mentoring our youth to take over the world and do the good things that we need. It's all about empowerment."
"As always, the AAYLC is a first class event that provides a much needed service for our youth."
"Thanks again for this opportunity for our students. They look forward to this every year."
"Quite a variety of diverse class offerings."
"I am absolutely impressed with your volunteers and presenters and organization..."

Mission

Our mission is to deliver innovative programs and experiences to enhance student empowerment in their communities and beyond.

Background Statement

On January 16, 1993, the first African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) was held at the Hillside Community Center, Colorado Springs. It was sponsored by the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, INC.

​The AAYLC was limited to young African American males in grades 6 - 12 and was presented from the perspective of a male minority. The AAYLC was the first of its kind in Colorado Springs. This conference focused on social issues affecting black youth, the importance of education, and the study of Black History. In attendance were approximately 175 male students.

Because of the AAYLC's tremendous success and the positive response from the community, it was expanded in 1994 to include females in grades 6 through 12. At the time, Colorado College was the Conference's first major partner, providing both funding and facilities. Since 1994, Colorado College has been an important partner. Each March, the AAYLC hosts approximately 700 students of all ethnicities on the Colorado College campus.

The AAYLC has grown since its inception as a result of its emphasis on educational development and community outreach. It now serves as a program supported by corporate, civic, academic, religious, fraternal, social, and other community organizations and individuals. It is entirely organized and carried out by volunteers from the community. To date, the AAYLC has served over 19,000 students in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Denver. The AAYLC has a long history of fostering high moral standards and values in youth.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

African American Youth Leadership Conference

other names

AAYLC

Year Established

1993

Tax id (EIN)

84-1548169

Category

Youth Development

Organization Size

Small Organization

Address

PO Box 76408
Colorado Springs, CO 80970

Service areas

El Paso County, CO, US

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