A leadership program for high school students interested in history, preservation, and their communities. 

The Community Leadership Boot Camp: Next Generation is a program for high school students who want to learn more about Los Angeles, historic places, and how to become advocates for the places and stories that matter to their communities. 

Students who participate are introduced to best practices in heritage conservation and lessons from the field, gain a heightened awareness of local preservation issues, and strengthen individual and group leadership skills. 

Through Community Leadership Boot Camp: Next Generation, participants: 

• Learn about historic preservation and the ways it can benefit a community

• Learn to make a compelling case for preserving places they care about 

• Explore ways to win support for preservation 

• Connect with other students across L.A. County who share their passion for historic and cultural places 

This year, the program will place a special emphasis on women’s landmarks and women’s history in Los Angeles. Students will learn about the Los Angeles Women’s Landmarks Project, which highlights places connected to the lives and contributions of women and explores how women’s stories are represented (or missing from) L.A.’s historic landscape. Students will consider how recognizing and preserving these places can help create a more complete and inclusive understanding of Los Angeles history. 

Program Details 

• Open to: Students in grades 9–12 

• Location: Los Angeles County 

• Cost: Free! 

Students will participate in five sessions (4 via Zoom, 1 in person) designed to introduce them to historic preservation and community advocacy while giving them the opportunity to connect with other young peoples who share an interest in Los Angeles history and culture. 

The program will include conversations with preservation professionals and community leaders, activities focused on research and storytelling, and opportunities for students to explore the history of places throughout Los Angeles County.

Program Dates:

• Thursday, November 12, 2026 (Via Zoom)
• Thursday, November 19, 2026 (Via Zoom)
• Thursday, December 3, 2026 (Via Zoom)
• Saturday, December 12, 2026 (In-person)
• Thursday, January 7, 2027 (Via Zoom) 

Attendance at all five sessions is required. 

Who Can Apply? 

Community Leadership Boot Camp: Next Generation is open to high school students in grades 9–12 who attend an accredited high school in Los Angeles County. 

No previous experience in historic preservation is required. We are looking for students who are curious about Los Angeles and interested in learning more about history, architecture, culture, community, and advocacy. 

If you are passionate about your community and want to learn how you can help preserve the places and stories that make Los Angeles unique, we encourage you to apply! 

Applications 

Applications for the 2026–2027 Community Leadership Boot Camp: Next Generation are [CLOSED]. 

Stay Connected 

If you have a high school student in your life who might be interested in this program, please help spread the word! 

The Community Leadership Boot Camp: Next Generation is part of the Los Angeles Conservancy’s commitment to encouraging the next generation of preservationists and community leaders. 

Major funding for the Los Angeles Conservancy’s educational programs is provided by the Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation.