iLEAD

Whitley County »»»

What Should I Expect at iLead?

iLEAD is a unique opportunity for Whitley County high school students to develop leadership skills and learn the principles of philanthropy through hands-on service projects that directly impact their community. This free program provides students with valuable experience in teamwork, project management, and community service. iLEAD meets once a month on Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with lunch provided. Limited spots are available, so sign up today to make a difference and grow as a leader!

How Do I Sign Up?

Registration for iLEAD is required to ensure we have all the necessary details for your high school student’s participation. Guardians can complete the simple registration process by clicking the button below. We’re excited to welcome your student to a transformative and engaging experience!

Just Give Me The Details!

COST

Our programs are 100% FREE to local youth! We believe in eliminating all barriers to attendance, including cost!

LOCATION

201 W. Market Street, Columbia City, IN 46725

(Please use Door 1 @ corner of Chauncey and Market St.)

HOURS

Once a month on Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

CONTACT

More questions? No problem!

Contact our iLEAD director below…

Meet Our Staff

Meet our Staff

At The Center, we believe students need healthy role models. Learn more about our iLEAD staff below.

Tim LaRueHigh School Program Director and Thrive 100 Program Director

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministries and a minor in Business Management from Huntington University, Tim brings both knowledge and passion to his role. His deep commitment to serving students and helping them grow in their faith led him to The Center, where he loves the genuine investment in students’ lives. Outside of work, Tim enjoys playing sports like soccer, volleyball, and pickleball, and even fits in some gaming when he can. This school year, he’s most excited about building meaningful relationships with students and creating fun, impactful experiences along the way.

What Are They Saying?

I come to The Center because sometimes I need help my parents can’t give me.

Madison, Student

[My Daughter] does well in the program and even gets her homework done on time. She builds friendships and relationships with her peers that she may not have been able to do in school.

Rebekah, Parent

I come to The Center because it gets me away from my homelife and improves my mental health!

John, Student

At The Center, I had people who cared for me and rooted for me every day. It meant so much to me and I 100% believe I wouldn’t be who I am today without having the boundaries, respect, and expectations that I was given during that time.

Katie, Center Alumni

The Center gave me a place to go and to have a warm meal when I know my mom would be working overtime and wouldn’t be able to cook for us.

Nick, Center Alumni

The experience that The Center provides for my kids is not one that I could give them as a single parent.

Mary, Parent

The Center helped me develop skills that I’ve used on a daily basis in my life.

Kali, Center Alumni