BYOL youth leadership program

Louisville, KY · Russell Community · Est. 2021

Be Your
OwnLeader.

Building confident leaders through academics, culture, mentorship, and community.

Our Mission

More Than a Program.
A Movement.

BYOL is a year-round youth leadership and enrichment program serving children and families in Louisville's Russell community. Through academic support, social-emotional learning, cultural pride, mentorship, field experiences, and hands-on leadership opportunities, we help young people discover their voice, purpose, and potential.

BYOL mentor working with student

The Proof Is in the Numbers

A Track Record of Excellence

2021
Year Founded
Serving Louisville Youth
76%
Yearly Return Rate
Students Come Back Every Year
0
Suspensions
Zero Behavior Referrals While Enrolled

What We Do

Programs Built for
Every Young Leader

Academic support and leadership development

Academics

Academic Support +
Leadership Development

Safe afterschool and summer programming

Programming

Safe Afterschool & Summer Programming

Culture & Identity

Social-Emotional Learning & Cultural Pride

Rooted in heritage. Built for the future.

Mentorship and field experiences

Mentorship

Mentorship & Field Experiences

Community

Community Partnerships Across Louisville

We work alongside local organizations, schools, and businesses to create a network of support that extends far beyond our doors.

Join the Movement

Every Leader
Needs a
Village.

Whether you enroll a student, donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word — you are part of building the next generation of leaders in Louisville.