Jump Start 2026

Leadership isn't a solo climb; it's bringing your team with you. In this facilitated session, Felix Bobo, an after-school administrator, walks program directors, site coordinators, and future leaders through The Climb: casting a clear vision for where the organization/team is headed (the Summit), taking honest stock of the foundation already in place (Basecamp), and recognizing that what got the team here may not get them where they're going. Participants identify, in their own words, the real obstacles standing in their way (Challenges), and explore why even strong leaders need the support of others to bring a vision to life (Support).

Success rarely follows a straight path. This session is designed for young adults (ages 18–22), educators, mentors, and leaders who want to help the next generation develop resilience in the face of setbacks. Participants will explore why many young adults are quick to quit when challenges arise and learn practical strategies to shift from a fixed mindset to one of adaptability, perseverance, and growth. Through real-world examples and actionable tools, attendees will leave equipped to navigate obstacles with confidence, embrace failure as part of the learning process, and build the resilience needed to thrive in school, work, and life.

Afterschool directors, site coordinators, and youth development professionals play a vital role in helping Utah's children and working families thrive. As Utah faces a shortage of affordable child care, before-school, afterschool, and summer programs have become an essential part of the solution. In this interactive session, participants will explore Utah's child care landscape, discover how out-of-school time programs strengthen families and the workforce, and practice simple storytelling strategies that build community support. Attendees will leave with practical tools to communicate their program's impact, strengthen partnerships, and confidently advocate for the resources children and youth need to succeed.

Change is constant in afterschool programs, but it doesn't have to drain your team. Discover how small leadership shifts can build staff resilience, strengthen team culture, and improve outcomes for youth. Based on 13 years of VentureLab's experience, this session gets you hands-on with a framework rooted in creativity, adaptability, and purpose. Leave with ready-to-use strategies you can implement immediately, plus a complimentary seat in VentureLab's online course to continue the learning!