PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Leadership Training Conference (LTC) is a dynamic and engaging character development experience designed to inspire and empower teens. Focused on personal growth and leadership skills, LTC provides a unique opportunity for students to discover their potential, build valuable skills, and deepen their understanding of what it means to be a servant leader.
Through a mix of guided discussions, small group activities, and team-building exercises, participants explore their values and sharpen their leadership abilities—free from the usual pressures of daily life. LTC offers a rare space where teens can authentically be themselves, form lasting friendships with peers from across the state, and have fun while learning.
By the end of the conference, students will return home better equipped to lead with purpose and make a positive impact in their communities, schools, and beyond.
2026 DETAILS
Date: June 14th - 17th
Location: Berea College in Berea, KY
Price: $310 (does not include discount codes or scholarships)
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
If you're a student, parent, or advisor who wants to learn more about our Leadership Training Conference (LTC), please join in on our interest/informational Zoom sessions.
Whether you have specific questions, want to get to know the Program Director (Nicole Hankins) and KY YMCA CEO (Amanda Pile Chism), or just want to learn more about the program in general, this meeting is for you! In addition to LTC, we will also be going over another one of our programs, Y-Corps. Please see dates, times, and meeting links below.
- Thursday, March 19th from 5:30 - 6:00 PM EST (click here for meeting link)
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT CURRICULUM
Throughout LTC, in addition to engaging in fun camp-like activities, students focus on our five pillars of character development: Responsibility, Relationship Building, Emotion Management, Empathy and Personal Development. The related activities engage students in learning to:
- practice self-exploration and goal-setting
- understand leadership styles
- build empathy
- discuss community and social issues
- build and strengthen relationships
- expand perspectives
- explore personal development
WHY ATTEND LTC?
After attending LTC, students reported growth in:
- Confidence in their ability to build lasting relationships.
- Self-awareness and understanding of their identity.
- Clarity and familiarity with their goals and ambitions.
But perhaps the most important takeaway is that our students have a blast! From epic shaving cream fights to exciting slip 'n slides, LTC participants not only learn valuable skills, but they also form meaningful friendships and enjoy an unforgettable experience. Think of it as a summer camp with a twist—where you gain leadership skills without even realizing you're learning!
DISCOUNT & SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
The Kentucky YMCA is committed to ensuring access to our programs for all interested students.
Scholarships
If you were awarded a Needs-Based Scholarship during the 2025 - 26 academic year, that same discount percentage will be applicable to your registration for LTC 2026. Please contact Danielle at danielle@kyymca.org for scholarship assistance.
Pioneer Discount
A Pioneer Discount is available on a limited basis to two students from each school, who are the first from their schools to attend LTC. On time registration is required, and only one discount is allowed per conference, including need-based scholarship. This discount is $50 and is only offered to students attending a school in Kentucky. To find out if your school qualifies, please contact Nicole at nicole@kyymca.org.
SUPPORT LTC
Purchase Items from our Amazon Wish List for Our Leadership Training Conference (LTC)
KY YMCA is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization. For over 130 years, we've provided teens across Kentucky with leadership and character development programs. These programs are open to people of all financial levels. This has been made possible through the kindness and support of people like you. In addition to our normal donation options that enable us to provide need-based scholarships, we also offer the option to purchase items needed for specific programs. Help keep our Leadership Training Conference (LTC) affordable for all by purchasing items from our Amazon wish list today!
Refund Policy
We hope you wont need to request a refund, but in the event that you do, CLICK HERE to view our refund policy and find the link to the refund form.