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Battle Buddy Youth Leadership Corps
10-Week leadership program for youth ages 12-17

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.

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