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Florida Youth Leadership Academy

Florida Youth Leadership Academy

The Florida Youth Leadership Academy (FYLA) kicked off in December 2007 in Orlando, Florida. What was initiated as a professional development project under the direction of Florida’s Department of Children and Families Child Welfare Leadership Program and Connected by 25, grew into a statewide mentorship and leadership program for youth involved in the child welfare system.

Apply to be a Mentor!

Inspire young leaders through building healthy relationships, exploring leadership development, and actively engaging them within their communities.

Who Can Apply

  • Currently employed with DCF, a Community-Based
    Care(CBC) Lead Agency, or their subcontracted
    providers, or Guardian Ad Litem.
  • Must have a minimum of 3 years of child welfare
    experience or at least two years of experience
    mentoring youth.
  • Ability to demonstrate strong capabilities as a leader.

Helpful Tips

  • Please make arrangements to attend all trips as every trip is mandatory unless approved by the FYLA coordinator.
  • You are only allowed to miss one of the scheduled trips, with the kickoff trip being mandatory.
  • Do your best to not miss monthly mentor calls; it gives you an opportunity to discuss any concerns, questions, or comments that you may have.
  • Send your completed application to Cal.walton@myflfamilies.com

Deadline

  • December 01, 2024 at midnight

How Does It Work

1

Submit Application

Fill out and submit the detailed application form. Email your finished application to Cal.Walton@myflfamilies.com.
2

Attend Mentor Training/Orientation

Complete the required training or orientation to prepare for your role.
3

Participate in Monthly Virtual Calls

Join the mandatory 30-minute virtual mentor calls each month.
4

Meet with Your Mentee

Spend a minimum of four hours per month meeting with your mentee face-to-face during the off months.
5

Maintain Weekly Contact

Make at least weekly contact with your mentee as needed.
6

Await Status Notification

Expect to receive notification about your application status by early January.
Apply Now