EmpowerMT

                                                    Empowering Youth Leadership Institute

EmpowerMT creates a more just and inclusive society by developing youth and adult leaders work to end mistreatment, correct systemic inequalities and strengthen communities across Montana.

EmpowerMT envisions a Montana where each person is respected, where differences are understood, where youth, institutions, and communities share a commitment to correct injustices, and where all people have the opportunity to thrive without the risk of violence or oppression.

 Youth Advocacy Day 2025 - Helena, Montana 

From left to right: Mars Jaeger, Queer Youth Specialist and Youth Advisory Council Member; Rajiem Seabrook, Director of Strategy and Social Impact; Jess Monis-Hernadez, Director of Youth Engagement; Heidi Wallace, Executive Director

EmpowerMT's Youth Leadership Programs:

We offer a full leadership journey—from early elementary to high school graduation.

Elementary & Middle School

• All My Neighbors Training (Upper Elementary) Builds empathy, celebrates diversity, and teaches peacekeeping skills.

• Building Bridges, Activating Allies Training (Middle School) Helps students understand bias and build allyship and belonging.

• EPIC (Empowering People Inspiring Change) A year-round after-school club focused on identity, confidence, and student-led action.

High School & Youth Advisory Council

• Empowering Youth Leadership Institute A 3-day summer camp where students and educators build facilitation, inclusion, and leadership skills—at no cost. Meals, lodging, educator stipends, and OPI/PIR credits are provided.

• Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Graduates of the Institute can apply to join YAC, a youth-led team that co-designs workshops, trains peers, and shapes inclusive school culture across Montana.

• Leadership Training Helps students celebrate identity, unlearn bias, and practice real-world allyship to address discrimination and create change.

Affinity Groups for Connection & Identity

• Be You Crew (5th–8th grade)

• Youth Forward (9th–12th grade) Safe, empowering spaces for LGBTQ+ youth to find support and celebrate identity.

• ABY: Association for Black, Indigenous & Youth of Color Leadership and community-building rooted in racial justice and inclusive history.