Thunderbirds Charities Leadership Academy
The Thunderbirds Charities Leadership Academy (TCLA) is the first step in Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley’s premier teen leadership journey. Through hands-on leadership development, public speaking, college and career readiness, mentorship, and community engagement, teens gain the skills and confidence to lead in their Clubs, schools, and communities.
Building Arizona’s Next Generation of Leaders
At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley, we believe leadership development changes lives. Through our Character & Leadership programs, young people learn to stay true to their values, demonstrate good citizenship, and drive positive change in their communities.
The Thunderbirds Charities Leadership Academy and Youth of the Year help teens strengthen:
- Confidence
- Communication skills
- Civic engagement
- Professionalism
- Goal setting
- Resilience
- Service leadership
These experiences help prepare teens for college, careers, and lifelong success.
Leadership That Opens Doors
Through TCLA and Youth of the Year, teens gain access to life-changing experiences, scholarships, mentorship, and career opportunities.
- Disney College Program opportunities
- Super Bowl and major event experiences
- Scholarship awards
- College and career networking
- Civic engagement opportunities
- Leadership conferences
- Internship pathways
- Community service projects
Eligibility & Commitment
Thunderbirds Charities Leadership Academy Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a Sophomore, Junior, or Senior
- Must have been a Boys & Girls Club of the Valley member for a total of at least two years—including former Metro Phoenix and former East Valley members
- Must have a minimum 2.5 GPA
- Must be able to commit to all six program sessions during the summer
- AZYouthforce members are also eligible!
Completion of the Thunderbirds Charities Leadership Academy does not guarantee advancement into Youth of the Year. Selected participants demonstrating exceptional leadership, growth, and commitment may be invited to continue into the Youth of the Year process.
Applications are now closed for the 2026 program.
Thank you to all who applied!
Powered By Thunderbirds Charities
The Thunderbirds Charities Leadership Academy was created through a transformational investment from Thunderbirds Charities to expand leadership opportunities for Arizona teens and develop the next generation of community leaders.
This program equips young people with the confidence, voice, and skills to lead today — and shape Arizona’s future tomorrow.
