Developing Leadership Skills

Since 1999, the Hancock Youth Leadership (HYL) Program has invested in the future of Findlay & Hancock County by helping high school students grow as confident leaders and communicators. Through hands-on experience and real-world learning, students explore how our community operates while building skills they will use in school, future careers, and everyday life.

HYL is built on the principle that leadership is not about titles. It is about how students show up as listeners, collaborators, and positive influences in their schools and community. The program helps students strengthen communication, teamwork, empathy, and community awareness, with focus on growth, responsibility, and meaningful contribution.

“HYL is a motivating force creating positive role models & future leaders committed to their civic responsibilities.”

Applications for the HYL Class of 2027 Now Open!

Submit recommendations for the HYL Class of 2027!

Deadline to Apply: February 27, 2026
Class Begins: August 7, 2026

HYL Schedule

HYL is a nine-month program with one session day per month held during the school day. Each session is designed and led by community leaders with interactive activities and meaningful discussions focused on communication, leadership, and community awareness. Students explore local businesses and organizations across Hancock County while developing empathy, compassions, and appreciation for different perspectives, all while growing personally and professionally.

Session Days

August – All-Day Retreat
September – Business & Economic Development
October – Health & Human Services
November – City & County Infrastructure
December – Agriculture
January – Belonging
February – Arts & Media
March – Justice & Law
April – Public Speaking & Graduation

Every experience is designed to…

Students in HYL with gain:

Increased confidence and communication skills
Connections with community leaders and peers from across the county
A better understanding of how Findlay and Hancock County operates
Exposure to career paths and local industries
Experience that strengthens college, scholarship, and job applications
The know-how to be stronger community stewards

See what Hancock Youth Leadership is all about:

Click Here to Donate to HYL

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who should apply?

HYL is an exclusive program for motivated high school students who want to learn more about themselves, their community, and how to communicate in positive ways.

Students do not need to hold leadership titles to be a great fit. The program is for students who have a desire to strengthen their communication skills, work effectively with others, and become more confident in sharing ideas and listening to different viewpoints.

All Hancock County high school sophomores are eligible to apply. Students selected for the program will begin the experience at the start of their junior year in Fall 2026.

Is there a tuition fee?

There is a tuition fee of $275, which includes the cost of food, transportation, materials, and facility usage for each session.

Thanks to generous community supports, scholarships are available to help reduce the cost for students and families. Applicants can request scholarship assistance by selecting the appropriate box on the application form. Please do not let the tuition fee prevent you from applying.

Click Here to Donate to HYL!

How do I apply?

Hancock County high school sophomores may apply beginning in January 2026 through an online application. The application deadline is March 6, 2026.

As part of the application, students may contact a teacher, counselor, supervisor, mentor, or another adult to complete a brief online recommendation form. See application for more information here.

Students are encouraged to check in with their principal or guidance counselor early in the process to confirm excused absences for session days.

What is the selection process?

Applications are reviewed by a selection committee that considers the student’s interest in learning, readiness to engage, and potential for growth. HYL seeks out a well-rounded class of students from across Hancock County with a range of experiences, perspectives, and leadership readiness.

What is the commitment?

HYL is a high-impact leadership program designed to fit within the school year. Students are expected to attend all nine session days, including a kickoff retreat and final graduation. Sessions typically run from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and may occasionally fall on a school holiday; dates are available in the application or through the Chamber.

Outside of sessions, students complete a volunteer project with a local nonprofit and collaborate on a class project. Full participation helps students gain the most from the experience and build strong connections.

What about missed classes?

HYL was developed with approval from all superintendents of Hancock County’s city and county schools. Students participating in HYL will be excused during school hours. However, students will be responsible for any missed class work.