It’s Time to Open Doors for Columbus Youth
Your generosity helps young people move beyond barriers and into futures filled with options.
Help Us Build a Pathway Forward
Lead The Way is a nonprofit youth development and workforce readiness organization serving students across Central Ohio with guidance, mentorship, and real-world opportunity.
Students Are Full of Promise, But Too Many Face Obstacles
Columbus is home to bright and innovative young people. But for many students, the future feels out of reach because of challenges outside of their control. A lack of stability. Limited access. Missing resources. Not enough exposure.
Your support helps remove those barriers so students can stay focused on growing and becoming who they’re meant to be.
“With the program, I have learned a lot. I’ve completed the STNA program with VIP Supreme Staffing, where I was able to obtain my CNA, and I will be taking my state testing. It’s truly helped me get ahead in life. I’m more confident, independent, becoming more prepared, and even understanding what my priorities are. This program has really helped me become responsible.”
— Makyla Lewis, Student at West High School.
We’re A Nonprofit Built on Follow-Through
Lead The Way has spent more than 20 years walking alongside students and families in our community, delivering support that leads to measurable outcomes.
95%
Graduation Rate
80%
Job Placement
85%
Post Program Success
Ways to Give
Make a One-Time Gift
Support urgent student needs and immediate opportunity gaps.
Become a Monthly Donor
Provide consistent, year-round support that sustains long-term programming.
Sponsor a Student Pathway or Cohort
Partner directly in workforce readiness and career development outcomes.
Give as a Corporate or Community Partner
Align your organization with the next generation of Columbus talent.
Your Impact in Action
Lead The Way students are learning how to lead, speak, and create thanks to your donations.
Built on Belief.
Growing With Purpose.
For over 20 years, Lead The Way has guided students through education and opportunity rooted in service and strengthened by community. Our story continues as we expand our reach and deepen our impact, one student and one supporter at a time.
Let’s Stay Connected
Want to see the impact of your support in real time?
Join our newsletter for student stories and opportunities to stay involved as Lead The Way continues to grow.
Donation Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Lead the Way is a registered nonprofit organization, and your contribution is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. After you donate, you’ll receive a receipt for your records. If you ever need a copy of a receipt or documentation for your accountant or employer giving program, our team can help.
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Your gift supports the programs and resources that help students move from barriers to opportunity. That includes workforce readiness programming, mentorship and career exposure, supportive services that remove everyday obstacles, and basic needs initiatives like hygiene and nutrition support. Donations also help sustain the staffing, systems, and partnerships required to serve youth consistently and deliver measurable outcomes over time.
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If you have questions about donation options, receipts, sponsorship opportunities, or how to align your support with a specific area of impact, reach out through our contact page and choose “Donating.” You’ll be connected with the right team member for the next steps.
Thank You for Opening Doors to Columbus’s Future
Lead The Way exists because young people deserve more than survival. Thank you for being part of the path forward.
