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Spirit of America Youth Leadership​​

Spirit of America Youth Leadership is a transformative four-day residential program that engages high school students from across the country with the first principles of freedom.
Founding Forward Sacramento students jumping for joy on the street

The Experience

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.

2026 Spirit of America Program Dates & Application

March 5-8 and April 16-19

Applications are now open for the 2026 program dates.  Apply today for this 4-day all expense paid trip to Philadelphia and Valley Forge.  Deadline for Applications is November 1st.  

Apply Now

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. 

Essay Instructions

The final requirement to complete your application is to submit an essay by December 1, 2025.

Essay Topic

In what ways is the Declaration of Independence still relevant in your life today?

Essay Guidelines

  • Must be typed, double-spaced, 500-1000 words
  • Header in top right must include student’s name, school, grade level, teacher’s name, and phone number
Submit Essay

What our students are saying

I am leaving with amazing memories, a better education of our nation’s past, and a desire to become more involved and outspoken in my community back home. I really want to make a difference ….
Lizzy
Student
Every discussion on the trip felt like a widening of my perspective and a chance to practice the virtues our country needs its citizens to uphold.
Percy
Student
The people I’ve met during my stay have widened my views, giving me perspective I would have otherwise ignored. Thank you for giving me such a satisfying reminder of the function of our country.
Lily
Student
I will confidently be able to pinpoint at exactly this experience that fueled my ambitions in American government and stemmed a bud of self-confidence.
Saraswathi
Student

Sacramento Volunteer Chapter Donations

Donations of any amount help us fulfill our mission and send teachers and students to attend civic education programs at Founding Forward.

Donate Now