This Is What Youth Leadership Looks Like at DREAM
- The DREAM Program, Inc.
- Feb 23
- 4 min read
Leadership isn’t about titles or status. It shows up in thoughtful questions. In speaking up for something you believe in. In being the person others can count on.
This Youth Leadership Month, we’re proud to celebrate our high school participants who are doing exactly that.
The following students are being recognized for demonstrating leadership, growth, and commitment through DREAM's Guided Mentoring program.
Aaron B.
Grade 12 | Proctor High School
Leadership can be quiet and deeply impactful. Aaron is a calm, genuine, and reliable presence for his mentee. Whether he’s supporting his mentee during challenging moments or simply showing up consistently, he models integrity and character.
“He shows up with patience, humor, and a grounded, down-to-earth presence that helps his mentee feel safe, seen, and valued … His impact is felt not in grand gestures, but in the meaningful, lasting relationship he continues to nurture.” — Emma Page, Senior Youth Service Manager
Charlie P.
Grade 12 | Mt. Abraham Union High School
Charlie’s steady presence and thoughtful preparation strengthen the mentoring experience. He consistently leads the way when it comes to organizing materials and generating the documents needed to ensure programming and activities run smoothly.
“Charlie’s charisma is one characteristic that has been key in his connection with his mentee, as well as something that bolsters the whole group.” — Bruce G. Perlow, Director, Guided Mentoring
Grace S.
Grade 11 | Burlington High School
Grace creates spaces where mentees feel safe to be themselves and brave enough to grow. She leads with honesty, care, authenticity, and fun, making it no surprise that a handful of mentees hope to be matched with her.
“Grace has played a key role in encouraging mentees to open up about aspects of their own identities in order to build stronger connections with each other … She has demonstrated the importance of doing so by opening up about her own experiences and identity as a young black woman.” — Emma Otten, Youth Service Manager
Kara G.
Grade 12 | Mount Mansfield Union High School
Even with a busy senior-year schedule and numerous extracurricular commitments, Kara consistently shows up for mentees. She plans thoughtful activities for the group and brings creativity, fun, and care into every meeting.
“Her participation, dedication, and enthusiasm [are] invaluable to our program, and we are so grateful to have her as a team member and mentor!” — Emma Otten, Youth Service Manager
Lila B.
Grade 12 | Mt. Abraham Union High School
Lila leads with responsibility and follow-through, both in planning and facilitating time with mentees. Lila shows up even in the smallest of ways, moving the group into action.
“Lila consistently steps up to lead the group of mentors… [and] accepts ownership and responsibility for the programming of the group.” — Bruce G. Perlow, Director, Guided Mentoring
Maura T.
Grade 12 | Proctor High School
Maura is a leader who builds opportunities for others. Her involvement in DREAM goes beyond participation; she played a key role in bringing Guided Mentoring to Proctor High School and has since taken on significant leadership responsibilities within the program. She’s an organized, dependable, and thoughtful leader who creates inclusive spaces for younger students.
“Rather than waiting for direction, she actively advocated for the [Guided Mentoring] program, worked with school stakeholders to coordinate its implementation, and helped ensure it became a sustainable and meaningful part of the school community.” — Emma Page, Senior Youth Service Manager
McKinley K.
Grade 12 | Mount Anthony Union High School
A tenacious visionary, McKinley helped turn the idea of Guided Mentoring at MAUHS into a reality. He continues to dedicate his time and energy to his community and set a strong example for younger students.
“McKinley's unwavering commitment and advocacy for DREAM is a HUGE part of why the program is at Mount Anthony.” — Jenn Moore, Senior Director of AmeriCorps Operations
“Without McKinley, there would be no Guided Mentoring in Bennington.” — Anonymous
Natalie D.
Grade 12 | Winooski High School
Natalie’s enthusiasm, dedication, and strong facilitation skills does not go unnoticed. She plays an active role in planning and leading activities, and her leadership has helped mentees feel supported and included.
“She sets a great example for mentees to look up to and helps to foster a positive, welcoming environment during programming.” — Emma Otten, Youth Service Manager
Payton P.
Grade 9 | West Rutland School
Payton leads with heart and dedication. Her openness to ideas and suggestions makes her an incredible teammate and leader. She always arrives early, supports her peers, and encourages those around her.
“Payton brings a strong leadership presence to everything she does … Her positivity and commitment make a lasting impact on our DREAM community.” — Emma Page, Senior Youth Service Manager
Reagan P.
Grade 12 | Proctor High School
Reagan approaches mentoring with compassion, kindness, and a genuine desire to grow. When building a connection with her shy and quiet mentee felt challenging, she didn’t step back. Instead, she leaned in, asked thoughtful questions, sought guidance, and adjusted her approach. Her willingness to reflect and try again strengthened the relationship, and her mentee has grown more comfortable and open.
“Her warmth, curiosity, and genuine care make her a bright and steady light in the lives of those around her.” — Emma Page, Senior Youth Service Manager
Rylee H.
Grade 9 | West Rutland School
Quiet, consistent, and determined, Rylee shows that leadership doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. Her perfect attendance, early arrivals, and behind-the-scenes support help ensure everything is ready to go for programming.
“Rylee understands that mentoring isn't just about when it is convenient for you. She is a mentor all the time and makes sure to greet her mentees whenever she sees them in the halls of WRS.” — Emma Page, Senior Youth Service Manager
Across schools and communities, these students are choosing to lead in meaningful ways.
By advocating for a program their school doesn’t yet have. By arriving early to prepare materials. By adjusting their approach when connection feels hard. By greeting their mentee in the hallway just because.
That’s the kind of leadership that builds community, and it's happening every day in Guided Mentoring.
To all of our high school participants:
We’re grateful for you. We’re proud of you. And we’re excited for who you’re becoming.
Happy Youth Leadership Month 💛
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