Our Mission

Student Leadership Services, Inc. (SLS) is a Michigan-based non-profit dedicated to ensuring our youth remain safe, healthy, and alcohol and drug free. SLS accomplishes this through innovative student-led prevention programs, trainings and events for students and adults. Since its inception in 1982, SLS has empowered students and adults to create safe, supportive, interactive and engaging student-led environments so that they can lead change in their communities.

When it comes to student-led prevention and youth development, we focus relentlessly on three key strategies.

  1. Listen to students. Above all, youth voice matters. Students want to make their schools and communities better. They want to help their friends stay safe and they undoubtedly know what the most pressing problems are. We ask, then listen. 
  2. Engage students. SLS students aren’t helpers in adult-created projects. They decide what is meaningful to them and create their own projects, seeking adult guidance and expertise as needed. 
  3. Coach students in leadership skills and then let them lead. Youth have the desire, the capacity and the passion, but they don’t yet have all the knowledge and skills. Therefore, we work alongside students to provide them with the education and tools they need to bring their projects to life. Then, we give them a platform to implement their ideas and we get out of the way and let them lead. 

How we do it

Our mission in Action
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we Appreciate
our Contributors

Since 1982 we have relied on the generosity of our donors, sponsors and alumni. We are grateful that they continue to support our commitment to student-led prevention. It saves lives.

Donors

The SLS experience

When Dawn comes to our school and trains our students it is fun and interactive. As a matter of fact, students comment on how she is able to put them at ease right away and create a warm and fun environment.
School CounselorMidland, Michigan
A few months ago I lost contact with a close friend of mine because she started acting out and hanging around different people. After the workshop Tuesday I realized many of the things she was doing were considered warning signs. I sent her a simple text asking if she was ok, and she instantly responded with everything that has been happening. She was really grateful that I reached out because she needed someone to talk with. I thought you would love to hear how impactful your workshops really are.
StudentFreeland High School
Once again, you have proven the relevance of SLS and why you and your agency are SO IMPORTANT to our kids and families today. Thanks for your really hard work at staying alive for the last three decades and providing world class resources for all of us.
Prevention Network
This was an excellent workshop! I can't believe you kept our kids' attention and made it fun! More people need to know about this program.
Parent AttendeeGuiding Good Choices Parent Workshop
The Life Skills Program is going very well. SLS is able to maintain students attention and provides a warm and inviting environment. Students are learning key things beyond the Life Skills curriculum such as learning to take a turn, raise hands and interact with each other.
DirectorBoys & Girls Club, Troy, MIchigan
Thank you so much Dawn! I am so honored to be a part of this organization and I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity. God bless you guys!
Student
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Oakland Community Health Network