Youth Leader Development Program (YLDP)
The Youth Leader Development Program (YLDP) is a volunteer internship opportunity with HRCA for youth ages 13-19. YLDP offers motivated youth ages 13-19 the opportunity to build leadership skills, gain real-world experience, and make a meaningful impact in our chess community. YLDP leadership training and experience can be used for future employment applications, college applications, etc.
Leadership Commitment
YLDP members must commit to actively serve HRCA in a leadership capacity, by choosing one or more roles, such as:
- Tournament Director or Tournament Management Support
- Assistant coach or a Special Mission Program Coach
- Peer Tutor
- HRCA Ambassador at community outreach events.
Some roles may require parental supervision for members under the age of 18. YLDP members are able to choose the role(s) in which they wish to serve, and must commit to a minimum of 20 leadership hours between September 1st and August 31st each program year.
Volunteer Hours and Awards
Leadership hours only count toward the YLDP commitment. Non-leadership hours (such as event setup or administrative / logistical work performed at home) do not count toward the YLDP commitment, but all hours logged do qualify for volunteer awards through HRCA or another organization. You may use your hours to fulfill volunteer commitments for other organizations such as National Honor Society or Scouts. HRCA will certify volunteer hours upon request.
Applicant Requirements
All applicants must be current US Chess members with an established Regular over-the-board rating. This requirement ensures applicants are qualified to act in assistant coaching and tournament directing capacities.
- Complete the online application. Applicants, not parents, must fill out the form.
- Participate in an interview with the HRCA Executive Director.
- Once selected, members in good standing do not need to reapply each year — just confirm your intention to continue.
Training and Conduct Standards
- Before beginning work, all YLDP members must complete Safe Play training requirements.
- Members age 18-19 must also pass a background check.
- Members may be removed from the program at any time for failure to demonstrate maturity and professionalism, with a one-year waiting period before reapplication.
If you are ready to step into a leadership role and make a difference, click below to apply today!
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS AUGUST 17th.