SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) is set to launch a transformative initiative for young leaders. REAL ID enforcement may be phased, but deadline in Massachusetts is the same: What to know The "Youth Leadership in Action" program, beginning January 21, is a ten-week program designed for students aged 14-16 that aims to inspire volunteerism, foster career exploration in the nonprofit sector, and address pressing community needs. This program in partnership with the Valley Opportunity Council's (VOC) YouthWorks initiative will host a cohort of five to ten students at UWPV's Springfield Food Pantry. Participants will engage in a blend of hands-on service and educational sessions, providing them with meaningful community service hours and insights into the inner workings of nonprofit organizations. Program highlights include: Volunteer Opportunities: Students will dedicate 1.5 hours each week to assist at the Springfield Food Pantry, helping to combat food insecurity in the region. Career Exploration: After volunteering, participants will spend 30 minutes in classroom-style sessions led by nonprofit professionals, learning about fundraising, advocacy, and program management. Community Service Hours: By the program's end, students will have earned 20 hours of community service, meeting key requirements for schools and extracurricular programs. Family Night: The program will culminate with a Family Night, encouraging students' families to join in volunteer efforts and share a commitment to service. “This program goes beyond community service,” said Alli Maggio, Senior Director of Volunteer Engagement at UWPV. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools to lead, showing them the impact they can have, and introducing them to the opportunities available in the nonprofit sector. We hope it sparks a lifelong passion for making a difference.” The sessions will run weekly from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., with a break in February to align with public school winter vacations. A dedicated UWPV staff member will oversee the program to ensure participants feel safe and supported. For more information about the program or to learn how to support UWPV, visit their website. Local News Headlines State Senate and auditor still at odds Freezing temps keep ice on rivers and ponds in MA Mass. businesses get federal funds for solar energy Food insecurity impacts nearly 100K in western Massachusetts WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.