Project LEAD

Project LEAD (Leadership Education and Development), is the only program in Houston that seeks to improve outcomes for high school girls who are at risk by combining “soft skills” training necessary for professional success with the hands-on financial education that is critical for personal success.

Project LEAD provides financial education, leadership development and career exploration. Using an interactive curriculum that includes personal reflection and writing, games, skill building, guest speakers and simulation exercises, LEAD addresses each girl’s need to develop the characteristics that will make her successful despite her current situation. Weekly topics to be addressed through the LEAD curriculum include: Values and Decision Making, Goal Setting, Creating a Personal Financial Plan, Creating a Budget and Savings Plan and Choosing My Path.

LEAD participants are given an opportunity to practice as they learn and to observe leaders in action both of which are critical factors cited in “Women’s Independence Project” research. At the conclusion of LEAD, participants will be able to:

1) identify qualities of a leader in themselves and others;
2) describe their personal values;
3) prepare a personal budget;
4) develop their short and long term personal goals; and
5) acquire knowledge of the career options available to them.

For a one page Project LEAD fact sheet, click here.

Project LEAD Facilitator Application (currently inactive)

Project LEAD Sites

Fall 2012

César Chávez High School

Challenge Early College High School

Davis High School

KIPP Houston High School

Lamar High School

Lee High School

Westside High School

Young Women's College Preparatory Academy

DePelchin Children’s Center

Spring 2013

César Chávez High School

Challenge Early College High School

Davis High School

DePelchin Children’s Center

KIPP Houston High School

Sharpstown International High School

Westside High School

Worthing High School

If you are interested in having Project LEAD at your school, click here to contact The Women's Resource.

Project LEAD History

Outgrowth of the “Women’s Independence Project”, three years of research, funded by Houston Endowment and conducted by The Women’s Resource of Greater Houston
Research developed a blueprint for educational programming to help women and girls reach their full potential
Two ten-week semesters were developed that focus on leadership and self-empowerment skills for high school girls
2004 - launched Pilot program at Jeff Davis
2005 - first full program at Lee High School; students showed improvement on all post-test scores
2007 – added program to additional high schools: Lamar, Challenge and Southwest