Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (March 6, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Utah is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leadership Development Camp, a five-day overnight program that helps high school students build leadership skills and explore humanitarian service. The camp runs June 22–26 at Camp Pinecliff near Coalville and is open to Utah residents currently in 9th, 10th or 11th grade.
The program brings together young people from across the state to build confidence, form friendships and gain a deeper understanding of how they can make a difference in their communities. Now in its 16th year, the Red Cross Leadership Development Camp has helped train the next generation of humanitarian leaders. Through hands-on activities, group challenges and interactive workshops, students strengthen skills such as teamwork, communication, public speaking, problem solving and cultural understanding.
“The Red Cross believes in investing in young people who want to make a difference,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Leadership Development Camp gives students the opportunity to grow their confidence, develop leadership skills and learn how they can help their communities in times of need.”
What Students Will Experience
The five-day overnight camp is led by Red Cross volunteers and staff and includes leadership exercises, service-focused activities and team-building experiences. Campers explore humanitarian values and learn how organizations like the Red Cross respond to disasters, support military families and help communities prepare for emergencies.
Scholarships Available
The Red Cross of Utah is committed to making camp accessible to students across the state. Scholarships are available thanks to support from Greater Salt Lake Area Chapter board members and community partners, including Salt Lake Community Mutual Aid, Freedges, West Side Brown Berets and Nuanua Collective. Two additional scholarships are provided by community partners who prefer to remain anonymous.
With space for 40–50 more students, Utah high school students currently in 9th, 10th or 11th grade are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Students interested in attending the 2026 Red Cross Leadership Development Camp can learn more and apply by visiting redcross.org/LDC.
For additional information, contact the Red Cross Volunteer Services team at UTNV.Volunteer@redcross.org.
Get Involved After Camp
High school students can continue their involvement with the Red Cross beyond camp by becoming youth volunteers or starting a Red Cross Club at their school. Red Cross youth volunteers help organize service projects, support blood drives and promote preparedness in their communities.
To learn more about youth involvement opportunities, visit redcross.org/youth.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
