Retreat Challenge 2025: A Transformational Weekend for Tomorrow’s Leaders
“Outstanding,” “Needed,” and “The Best Youth Leadership Program” in Our Community — According to Community Partners and Professionals
Youth Leadership Authority (YLA)’s Retreat Challenge 2025 is officially in the books—and it was nothing short of extraordinary. This powerful 20-hour experience brought leadership, discipline, and purpose to 35 students, ages 11 to 18, shaping their minds, bodies, hearts, and souls.
Paving the Path to Public Service
62% of YLA Students Go on to Serve as America’s Heroes
Thanks to our immersive and rigorous training, an incredible 62% of our students choose to serve in the United States Marine Corps, Navy, Army, Police, or Fire Departments. This program builds true leaders—future heroes of our nation.
A Weekend of Elevated Excellence
From the RATTLE to Core Values: HRPKH
YLA Retreats always start strong—with the RATTLE—and close with our guiding principles:
Honesty, Respect, Peace, Kindness, and Humility (HRPKH). Every session is rooted in building character and courage.
Heroes Among Us: Special Thanks to Our Partners
Leadership in Action from Marines, SEALs, Police, and Fire
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible collaborators who made Day 1 unforgettable:
- Colonel Ray Blum and 9 U.S. Marines
- 4 Special Warfare, Warrior Challenge, Navy SEALs
- Henderson SWAT & Fire Department
- YLA Board of Directors & 8 Dedicated Volunteers
You inspired our Starfish Students (1st year), Eagles, and Guards (2nd–4th year).
Thank You, City of Henderson!
Exceptional Hosts for Retreat Challenge 2025
- Chief Scott Vivier – Thank you for hosting us at the beautiful Henderson Fire Training Center!
- Deputy Chief Benson Harper – We appreciate your generosity in opening Henderson PD North Station for Day 2.
Navy SEAL Magic & Marine Motivation
The Water Works & Special Workouts Make a Splash
The Navy SEAL-led water workout left everyone “sweating in their eyes” (and hearts full). Marines and instructors jumped in alongside the students—creating moments of shared effort and transformation.
Tactical Excellence on Display
Henderson SWAT & Police Lead with Strength
Henderson’s tactical team blew us away with their commanding presence, discipline, and engagement. Students walked away with more confidence and respect for public service.
Firefighters That Inspire
Real Community Heroes Who Showed Up for Our Youth
The Henderson Fire Department not only hosted us—they inspired us with their kindness, mentorship, and deep commitment to youth leadership.
Soulful Leadership: Day 2 Development
Trust Walks, Spiritual Growth, and Vision Boards
- Coach Joan Gamble led students through emotional intelligence and kindness exercises.
- Pastor Equilla and Stan Hicks (Lift One Up) helped students discover their futures through “God’s Glasses” and Vision Boards.
Their message: “It’s not about you.” – Navy SEAL Mathew Metsker, now YLA Board Member.
Sponsors Make It All Possible
Thank You for Believing in Our Mission
- AC Pro
- Gene Haas Foundation
- Mark Schick of Master Mechanical
- Full Throttle Law
- SHARE Village Las Vegas
- Henderson Police Officers Association
- Platinum Plastic Surgery
Your support powers the future!
What’s Next: Summer Leadership Series & The FORGE
YLA is Not One-and-Done—We Build Lifelong Leaders
YLA’s programs span 1 to 4 years across 9 distinct training paths. Up next:
- Summer Leadership Series (SLS)
- The FORGE Camp
📧 Email info@youthleadershipauthority.com or call 📞 702-720-2760 to get involved.
Stay Tuned!
Professional Photos and Videos Coming Soon
Thank you to everyone who helped make CHALLENGE 2025 a success. Let’s keep building leaders—one Starfish at a time.
