To apply to participate in the ALPLM’s Future Presidents of America Youth Leadership Camp, you must:
- Be from 13 to 16 years old on June 1, 2026
- Be able to participate in camp activities from June 8-12, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
If you are not able to apply for the ALPLM’s Future Presidents of America Camp, there are three other options you may want to consider.
Future Presidents of America offers a dynamic and inspiring opportunity to engage with peers and community leaders, learn new skills, and share your thoughts and opinions. While school administrators are currently submitting nominations, remaining spots will be filled through a competitive, self-nomination process beginning April 1, 2026. Self-nominations may be submitted before April 1st, but they will not be reviewed until after that date. The nomination and application period will remain open until all 24 spots are filled.
While we think everything about the camp is pretty cool, highlights of the week include:
- A formal Etiquette Luncheon
- Hands-on and team-building activities to help develop strong relationships with your peers
- The opportunity to engage state legislators, community leaders, and local businessmen and women
- Field trips to the Old State Capitol and Oak Ridge Cemetery
- An alumni reception with former camp participants
- Instruction and practice in public speaking
- Lively discussions around key civic-based topics
- Historian-facilitated tours of the museum and an artifact show-and-tell
- A formal reception with your parents and peers to celebrate your achievements during the week
If you’re still not sure, check out what our past Future Presidents and their parents/guardians have said about the camp!
“[My most valuable takeaways were] learning to argue effectively, how to achieve greatness on your own terms, and to never be afraid to network. You guys did AMAZING! The staff was so welcoming I enjoyed the experience overall!” – Passion H., Student
“This was probably one of the best summer camp experiences I’ve had.” – Marc Q., Student
“At first, I was nervous about the camp not knowing what to expect or what we would be taking part in, but…the camp was super engaging and fun. I loved connecting with other people who have the same passions as me…My most valuable takeaway from the camp was really connecting with others and learning how to argue in a professional way….I wish the camp didn't have to come to an end as I enjoyed greatly!” – Malina D., Student
“It was a fast week that left my child wishing there was more. The community engagement, encouragement to work alongside peers, and the hands-on historical lessons were all incredible experiences.” – Kathryn G., Parent
“It exceeded my expectations. I was afraid [my child] would be a bit intimidated, but he ended up having a great time, and came out of it wanting to work on his public speaking skills more. It was really great…I think [he] came out of the camp with a real boost in his self-confidence, which is great for a middle schooler. I think he is more confident that he can do things that seem difficult.” – Elise R., Parent
Future Presidents of America Youth Leadership Camp takes place on the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum’s Campus in the Library’s Multipurpose Room. The camp will run from June 8-12, 2026. Each day begins at 9:00 AM and ends at 4:30 PM, however, staff will be on site for 30 minutes prior to the start and end times to facilitate drop-off schedules. While we understand the unexpected may arise and will work with you, the expectation is that, if your child is selected, they will be present for all camp sessions.
Participants will receive a full scholarship ($500 value), covering all educational materials and lunch. Housing will not be provided for participants who need to travel a distance to attend camp.
Applications are currently being accepted and will remain open until student selection is complete. For those selected, additional paperwork will be required.
- All potential participants must complete the application regardless of whether they were nominated by a school administrator or self-nominated.
- While school administrators are currently submitting nominations, remaining spots will be filled through a competitive, self-nomination process beginning April 1, 2026.
- Self-nominations may be submitted before April 1st, but they will not be reviewed until after that date.
- The nomination and application period will remain open until all 24 spots are filled.
To access the application, click the link below.
If you have any issues completing the application online, please email the Education team at ALPLM.Education@illinois.gov and we’ll work with you to ensure you can apply.
Application