LEAPS (2017-2019)

LEAPS, a two-year initiative of BHP and the International Youth Foundation, created partnerships with local organizations in West Texas (greater Midland/Odessa area) and South Texas (between San Antonio and Victoria) and Northwest Louisiana to equip the areas’ young people—ages 11 to 24—with the skills needed to succeed in school, work, and life and to become more engaged members of their communities. Working with and through local youth-serving entities such as middle and high schools, community colleges, and local non-profits, LEAPS facilitated the expansion of existing programming and the development of services to make programs more accessible to youth. Locally-tailored programming might include soft skill training, career exposure and planning, and enrichment programs. By engaging and supporting community members and organizations to target gaps and needs they identify as critical, and strengthening the capacity and resources of local organizations, the initiative insured that young men and women will reap the benefits of LEAPS far into the future.