‘Learn to Lead. Be Ready to Help.’ is the theme of the day-long event to be held at West Hartford Town Hall on Nov. 13, 2026.

Submitted

On Friday, Nov. 13 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., the West Hartford Prevention Partnership will host its third annual Youth Leadership Academy. The theme of this year’s one-day immersive experience is Learn to Lead. Be Ready to Help.

Students will receive training focused on mental health, substance use prevention, wellness, recovery, and youth leadership. Open to West Hartford high school students, the Academy will take place at the West Hartford Town Hall Auditorium located at 50 South Main Street, West Hartford. 

“This Academy is an incredible opportunity for students to discover the power of their own voices and the impact they can have on their community. Students will engage in interactive workshops on topics including AI and teen mental health, teen dating violence, an overview of cannabis and vaping, and training in life saving interventions, including opioid overdose awareness and naloxone  This training will offer students the opportunity to  have meaningful conversations and connections with community leaders, and gain the knowledge, confidence and skills to become advocates for positive change,” said West Hartford Prevention Coordinator Gretchen Levitz.

Sponsored by the West Hartford Prevention Partnership in collaboration with West Hartford Public Schools, the West Hartford-Bloomfield Health District, Amplify, NAMI, Mandell JCC, Hartford Interval House, DT Cares, West Hartford Department of Emergency Management, Youth Recovery CT, and the West Hartford Department of Social Services, the Academy equips students with practical skills to support their peers and promote healthy school communities. 

“We want young people to understand the challenges that face them and how to become advocates for positive change. Their ideas, perspectives and leadership matter right now and it all starts with understanding the risks and educating them so they can impact others,” said Levitz.

The day will begin with a welcome by West Hartford School Superintendent Paul Vicinus Jr. and will conclude with presentation of certificates and other takeaways.

Registration is required at https://tinyurl.com/RegisterforYLA2026.

Space is limited. Breakfast, lunch and snacks will be provided. For more information, contact: Barbara Thomas  at [email protected].

Like what you see here? Click here to subscribe to We-Ha’s newsletter so you’ll always be in the know about what’s happening in West Hartford! Click the blue button below to become a supporter of We-Ha.com and our efforts to continue producing quality journalism.