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PARTNERSHIPS

At LEAD STL, our commitment to social change and equity extends far beyond the walls of our organization; it is deeply rooted in an active, ongoing collaboration with the community we serve. We recognize that the most impactful change arises from ground-level activism, facilitated by direct engagement with local schools, organizations, and individuals.

Through partnerships, workshops, and immersive learning experiences, we aim to bring about a collective shift in understanding and action. This community-centric approach ensures that our programs are not just tailored to the needs of the community, but are also powered by the very people striving for change. It is this symbiotic relationship that amplifies our impact, allowing us to foster leadership, build cultural understanding, and enact meaningful, long-lasting social change.

School & Community Partnership Opportunities:

Immersive School Partnership Program
Cross-District Partnership
Informative Workshops & Courageous Conversations

Immersive School Partnership Program

LEAD STL's Immersive School Partnership is a cutting-edge program designed to arm students with the tools and leadership skills they need to understand, identify, and combat inequity in their communities. Upon completing our workshops, students emerge with a deeper understanding of the subject matter and a renewed commitment to sustained action for equity and justice. Supported by LEAD STL facilitators, students will step out of their comfort zones, synthesize different perspectives, and develop the skills necessary to transform their school communities.

LEAD STL will provide a seasoned team of facilitators, a carefully curated curriculum, and select meeting spaces for this year-long partnership. The program includes a kickoff event, three weekend retreats, monthly Sunday programs, and an immersive St. Louis journey to solidify the learning experience. All necessary supplies, as well as costs for travel, meals, and student activities, will be covered within the partnership parameters.

Our multifaceted program aims to:

Promote intercultural communication
Provide a foundational understanding of local history
Equip students with tools to identify and counteract bullying

Core Learning Themes:

Identity & Social-Emotional Learning
Privilege, Power, and Systems of Oppression
Black & Jewish Histories & Cultural Resilience
Education, Housing & Health Equity
Advocacy, Empathy & Youth Leadership

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Cross-District Partnerships

LEAD STL's Cross-District Partnerships program is designed to break down barriers and build bridges between diverse school districts. Our objective is to arm students with the leadership skills and practical tools they need to identify inequities and take effective action. Over the course of a semester, participants from districts with differing demographics come together to engage in transformative workshops, develop a deep understanding of local history, and gain actionable skills to combat bullying and other social issues.

Methodology

Through a contract-based, semester-long partnership, this program is seamlessly integrated into the school day. The curriculum, facilitated by our experienced team of staff and trained alumni, includes a range of field experiences, activities and relationship-based learning to help students understand how systemic issues manifest in their own communities. Each participant will be provided with a toolbox of action items for implementing positive change.

The Details

The strength of our program lies in our dedication to ensuring every voice is heard. Prior to the program's start, partner schools are invited to collaborate on scheduling, logistics, and customizing the curriculum to meet specific needs. We provide all the necessary materials, cover travel and meal expenses, and facilitate meaningful excursions that further enrich the learning experience. Join us in empowering students to "Stand up, Speak out, and Take action," as they develop increased empathy, self-awareness, and a sustained commitment to improving their school communities.

Informative Workshops & Courageous Conversations

LEAD STL partners with schools and community organizations to offer one-time workshops designed to spark meaningful dialogue, deepen understanding, and inspire action.

Our Informative Workshops are interactive, 2–3 hour sessions designed to spark meaningful dialogue and deepen understanding of social justice topics such as identity, bias, intersectionality, leadership, and activism. Tailored to your school’s needs, each workshop fosters a safe and welcoming space where participants can reflect, share, and challenge their perspectives. Through experiential activities and facilitated discussions, students build empathy, strengthen communication skills, and leave with tangible tools to create positive change in their schools and communities.

As an extension of this model, Courageous Conversations bring together not just students, but also families, educators, and community members for honest, relationship-based dialogue across lines of difference. These sessions expand the impact of our workshops by creating space for shared learning, connection, and deeper community understanding.

What We Bring:

Workshops are led by LEAD STL staff and trained alumni facilitators, offering a dynamic, peer-informed experience. We maintain a low student-to-facilitator ratio to ensure all voices are heard and relationships are built. Sessions can accommodate up to 50 participants, with flexible options for larger groups.

Workshop Topics Include:

Identity & Intersectionality
Privilege, Bias & Oppression
Leadership & Empathy
Activism Through Art