InIt (The Leadership Initiative) is a highly acclaimed year-long youth development program designed to build and empower youth leaders. Established each year through partnerships between YWCA Boston and area schools, community organizations and youth programs, an Init class consists of 35-50 members comprised of 2-6 member delegations from each partner school/organization.
The program unites high school sophomores and juniors from Boston and surrounding communities, public and private schools, and many different personal backgrounds. Participants engage in an intensive, professionally managed, year-long training program focused on leadership, diversity and social justice.
InIt helps teens explore tough issues that affect them personally and divide society. They understand themselves more fully and set new goals for their personal lives and volunteer work in their neighbrorhood and schools. YWCA Boston takes InIt students through that process - from learning to leading.
An InIt year includes:
• The powerful overnight “InIt Immersion Week” in August – packed with exercises, discussions, and training to deepen understanding of diversity, society, and self.
• InIt program days meet monthly on Saturdays to help students stay focused, build new skills and strengthen the new InIt community they have established during Immersion Week.
• Coaching and support all year to help delegates take action as leaders
• The opportunity for mentoring from BCCJ’s adult alumni
• YWCA Boston Youth Council activities such as the fall retreat, graduation/reunions, Friday Night Flicks and special events
• A spring graduation and celebration ceremony
• Lifelong membership in the YWCA Boston Alumni Network along with adults and businesses who care about social responsibility, diversity and social justice
InIt 2012
The Init Class of 2012 has already begun! More than 30 delegates representing more than 18 schools and organizations have begun community service projects. Check our website for updates on their significant and positive community impact!
InIt 2013
Applications for the InIt graduating class of 2013 will be accepted between March and June of 2012. Interviews are required of all applicants.