Extended Family Leadership Academy (EFLA) is a program for 7th-12th grade students and operates under the guiding motto, “Lead Yourself.” Chosen by EFLA students themselves, this motto captures the program’s core mission: to empower young people in three foundational areas – job readiness and interviewing skills, health (including healthy relationships), and effective communication.
By building competency in these key areas, students develop the confidence needed to set and achieve personal and professional goals, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
During the first EFLA lesson, students are surveyed about the qualities of their dream jobs. We then invite local professionals who have found success in careers that share those qualities to speak to our students. These guest speakers share not only the rewards of their careers but also the challenges they faced along the way, offering real-life lessons and inspiration. Equally important, students are introduced to valuable networking opportunities with community leaders who may one day serve as references, mentors, or even employers.
To support students as they transition into life beyond high school, EFLA hosts an annual professional attire shopping trip. Senior students join Extended Family staff and volunteers at a department store where they purchase business-appropriate clothing, shoes, and accessories. This experience not only equips students with professional attire but also helps boost their confidence as they pursue career opportunities.
EFLA also provides practical training in application processes for jobs, colleges, and scholarships. Students are guided through the steps of completing various types of applications, learning how to gather the necessary information, request letters of recommendation, and follow up with thank-you notes. As part of this process, students complete our own Extended Family scholarship application. All seniors who apply are automatically considered for scholarship funding, which can be used toward college, junior college, or technical education programs.
For more information about Extended Family Leadership Academy or other Extended Family programs, please visit our website at www.extendedfamilyhelp.org. Through EFLA, we continue to fulfill our mission – “To offer help and inspire hope” – one child at a time.