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Battle Buddy Youth Leadership Corps

10-Week leadership program for youth ages 12-17

Foundation of the Ozarks Logo.png

This program was made possible through a generous grant from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks

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Battle Buddy Youth Leadership Corps

Belong. Lead. Serve.

Building Tomorrow's Leaders Through Dogs, Service, and Community

Every young person deserves a place where they feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to succeed.

The Battle Buddy Youth Leadership Corps (YLC) is a unique 10-week leadership program designed for youth ages 12–17 who are ready to grow in confidence, develop new skills, make lifelong friendships, and discover what it means to become a leader.

This isn't just another youth program.

It's an adventure.

It's a team.

It's a place where everyone belongs.

Whether you've never worked with a dog before or you've had dogs your entire life, you'll learn alongside other youth in a supportive, encouraging environment where everyone is challenged to become the best version of themselves.

Why Join the Youth Leadership Corps?

The bond between people and dogs teaches lessons that last a lifetime.

As students learn how to communicate with, care for, and train dogs, they also develop confidence, patience, responsibility, and leadership.

Throughout the program, youth discover that leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room—it's about serving others, encouraging teammates, solving problems, and leading by example.


What You'll Experience

Every week brings a new adventure.

Students participate in hands-on activities that may include:

🐾 Learning professional dog training techniques

🐾 Agility courses and confidence-building games

🐾 Obedience training

🐾 Team challenges

🐾 Leadership activities

🐾 Community service projects

🐾 Guest speakers and demonstrations

🐾 Field trips

🐾 Graduation celebration

No two classes are exactly alike, making every session exciting and engaging.



More Than Dog Training

Dogs are our teachers.

They help us learn:

⭐ Leadership

⭐ Teamwork

⭐ Communication

⭐ Responsibility

⭐ Patience

⭐ Compassion

⭐ Problem-solving

⭐ Confidence

⭐ Respect

These aren't just dog training skills.

They're life skills that students will carry into school, sports, future careers, and everyday life.



A Place Where Everyone Belongs

The Youth Leadership Corps was created on one simple belief:

Every young person deserves to belong.

We celebrate every student's unique strengths and encourage them to grow at their own pace.

Whether your child is outgoing or quiet, experienced or just beginning, they will find a welcoming community where friendships are built, confidence grows, and every success is celebrated.



Built on Three Core Values

BELONG

Everyone deserves a place where they are welcomed, respected, and valued.

We believe diversity, kindness, and teamwork make us stronger together.


LEAD

Leadership begins with character.

Students learn to take initiative, solve problems, communicate effectively, and encourage those around them.


SERVE

Great leaders serve others.

Youth will have opportunities to give back to their community while helping dogs and supporting Battle Buddy's mission of making a positive difference.



Your Leadership Journey

Students progress through four leadership levels:

⭐ Trainee

Learn the foundations of teamwork, responsibility, safety, and professionalism.

🐾 Handler

Develop dog handling skills, communication, and basic obedience training.

👥 Leader

Take on greater responsibility by leading activities, helping teammates, and participating in community service.

🏅 Mentor

Outstanding graduates may be invited back to mentor future Youth Leadership Corps members, continuing their leadership journey while helping others succeed.



A Partnership That Changes Lives

Many of the dogs students work with are being professionally trained through Battle Buddy after being rescued from local shelters.

While this program is focused on youth leadership, students also experience the incredible impact dogs can have on people's lives and witness how patience, consistency, and compassion can transform both dogs and people.



For Parents

As a parent, you want more than another extracurricular activity.

You want opportunities that help your child become more confident, responsible, and prepared for life.

The Battle Buddy Youth Leadership Corps provides:

✔ Small class sizes

✔ Professional instruction

✔ Positive mentorship

✔ Safe, structured learning

✔ Leadership development

✔ Team-building experiences

✔ Community involvement

✔ Lasting friendships

Our goal is simple:

Help every young person discover their potential while having fun, making memories, and developing skills that will benefit them for years to come.



Ready to Join the Mission?

If you're looking for a program where your child can belong, grow, and lead, the Battle Buddy Youth Leadership Corps is the perfect place to begin.

Come train with us.

Make new friends.

Learn new skills.

Serve your community.

Discover what you're capable of.

Belong. Lead. Serve.


The next generation of leaders starts here.

Apply

You must be between 12 and 17 years of age to apply. Questions? Call 660-890-5766. Parent or guardian approval will be required upon acceptance to the program. 

3. What are you hoping to learn or improve during this program?
4. Have you worked with dogs before?

Thanks for applying!

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Battle Buddy   

501(c)(3)

309 E Ohio St, Clinton, MO 64735     

Phone: 888-991-BUDS (2837)      

Email: contact@battlebuddyforveterans.org

© 2025 Battle Buddy 

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