WHO IS LEAD STL?
100% of Young Leaders reported an increased belief that they can make a difference in their community
Nearly 90% of alumni indicate that after graduating from our programs they continue to use the skills they learned to address social justice issues
94.8% of Young Leaders demonstrate understanding of core equity concepts, including racism and antisemitism
Over 800
Young Leaders Served
Since 2004
Who We Are
Founded in 2004 by Karen Kalish as Cultural Leadership, LEAD STL has spent more than two decades empowering young people to lead social change across the St. Louis region. Since our inception, we have served more than 800 students through immersive, relationship-driven programming rooted in empathy, dialogue, and lived experience.
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What makes us unique is our intentional focus on the interconnected histories of Black and Jewish communities and their intersections with other identities. Our programs invite students to explore identity, history, power, and responsibility while engaging directly with the people and places shaping our region.
Through immersive learning experiences, partnerships with community leaders, and our signature Courageous Conversations, students develop a deeper understanding of systemic inequities and strengthen their ability to communicate across difference.
Our offerings include middle school and high school cohorts, immersive travel experiences, and school-based partnerships that bring together students from diverse backgrounds. In 2023, our organization rebranded as LEAD STL to reflect our core values of Leadership, Empathy, Advocacy, and Diversity and to honor the evolution of our work and growing regional reach. While our programs, partnerships, and footprint have expanded, our commitment to equipping young people with the tools to confront injustice and lead with courage remains unchanged.
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LEAD STL believes leadership is not about titles or résumés, but about empathy, accountability, and action. By learning with one another rather than simply about one another, young people build authentic relationships, expand their perspectives, and grow into leaders prepared to bridge divides and create meaningful, lasting social change.
Our Mission
To empower youth to lead social change in Greater St. Louis through
immersive learning, leadership development, and empathy building.
Our Vision & Values
Develop courageous young leaders who bridge divides and make the world a better place.
Leadership
We lead with integrity and accountability, honoring our commitments and modeling the courage required for social change.
Empathy
We approach each other with curiosity, openness, and a deep respect for differences, creating inclusive communities where everyone belongs.
Advocacy
We believe collaboration—rooted in trust, courage, and allyship—is essential for addressing injustice and building a more equitable world.
Diversity
We celebrate the richness of our identities and commit to lifelong learning as a pathway to growth, transformation, and collective understanding.
Our Story
Our Alumni Say
“Camp was an influential experience. I learned about social justice issues and how they affected people, African American and Jewish history, and made great new friends.”
Camille S., Camp Alumna