Spirit of America Youth Leadership is a 4-day residential program that engages high school students nationwide with the first principles of freedom. The experience focuses on leadership development and civic education. It includes a mock congressional debate, a free enterprise challenge, workshops, and historical site visits.
Any Sacramento area high school student is eligible to apply, however preference is given to juniors.
Our sponsorship includes round-trip airfare, tuition, and room and board at Founding Forward’s campus in Valley Forge.
Applications are now open for the 2027 program dates. Apply today for this 4-day all expense paid trip to Philadelphia and Valley Forge. Deadline for Applications is November 1st.
For more information contact:
Jacille Wilson – SOA Director at (916) 521-4325
Emily Matthews – Chapter President at (916) 475-8750 or email sacforward@gmail.com.
The final requirement to complete your application is to submit an essay by December 1, 2026.
Analyze how the experience at Valley Forge shaped the founding principles of American citizenship. In your essay, identify at least two specific principles, rights, or responsibilities that emerged or were strengthened during the encampment, and argue why those principles remain relevant to citizens today, 250 years later.
Donations of any amount help us fulfill our mission and send teachers and students to attend civic education programs at Founding Forward.
