Seeking Role Models and Board of Directors for 2023

YLC is seeking to recognize New Orleans’ most inspirational leaders of today and train the passionate young leaders of tomorrow with applications and nominations now open for YLC’s Role Model Awards and its Board of Directors.

YLC is composed of early to mid-career adults (ages 21-42) interested in developing their leadership skills while bettering their community. The organization achieves its mission through leadership training, hands-on experience in volunteer-led community projects, and the amplification of community leaders. The annual class of Role Models and Board of Directors both play a critical role in accomplishing the organization’s mission while building a more equitable, inclusive New Orleans.

Board member and Role Model Awards Co-Chair, Olivia Mertensmeyer said, “The skills and lessons I’ve learned as a board member are invaluable, and this year, I am excited to be in a leadership role for the Role Model program. The Role Models are individuals that we, as young leaders, can inspire to become, and YLC helps us become them for the next generation. Become a board member this year, and be a role model in the future!”



YLC Role Model Awards
For over 35 years, YLC has been proud to honor EXTRAordinary individuals making a positive impact in the Greater New Orleans region. YLC’s Role Model Awards celebrate the efforts of local leaders who make critical contributions to the community and serve as exemplary icons for future generations. It’s an opportunity for these changemakers to be appreciated for their meaningful work and achievements while providing inspirational examples for YLC members seeking to leave their own mark on New Orleans.

Each year’s class of honorees is selected by a committee including members of YLC’s Board of Directors and past YLC Role Model Award recipients. Honorees are chosen based on significant contributions to their field of work and New Orleans. Notably, a person can only receive the honor of YLC Role Model once in their lifetime.

Know someone who creates impact and inspires the people around them to do so as well? Nominate them to be a 2023 YLC Role Model by filling out this form! Nominations are welcome until 5:00 PM on Monday, October 10, 2022.

For more information about YLC and to view past Role Model Award recipients, click here.

YLC Board of Directors
While YLC’s Role Models are a beacon of inspiration, YLC’s Board of Directors plays a vital role in the day-to-day success of the organization. Like a traditional non profit board, YLC’s 24-person board provides oversight and governance to the organization. Uniquely, YLC’s Board of Directors is also a pivotal piece in fulfilling its mission to train the future leaders of New Orleans. With 83.1% of board members in the U.S. over 40 years old (compared to just 61% of the general population) (The NonProfit Times, 2018), YLC offers a rare opportunity for young people to invest in their community via board service.

YLC’s board is a diverse body of individuals carefully chosen for their varying backgrounds and unique skill sets. Their purpose is to ensure the organization is on track with regard to meeting its goals, as well as to craft policies in support of those goals. They’re vital for the health and well-being of the organization and ensuring YLC continues to deliver a beneficial impact in the Greater New Orleans region.

Passionate, committed and proud to call New Orleans home, YLC’s Board of Directors serve to create a legacy of young leadership that will last for years to come. To apply for YLC’s Board, click here. Submissions must be received by October 2nd at 11:59 PM.