Visionary Leaders in Action (VLA)

Visionary Leaders in Action (VLA) is a youth-led substance use prevention coalition based on the Westside of Los Angeles, California, empowering students ages 14–18 to become changemakers in their schools and communities. VLA’s primary mission is to educate, engage, and equip youth with the skills and confidence to address issues impacting their peers, particularly those related to substance use, mental health, and community wellness.

Through leadership development, community engagement, and advocacy projects, VLA members gain firsthand experience in creating meaningful change. The program’s core activities include youth-led presentations at local schools, community awareness campaigns, volunteer outreach, and planning events like the Youth Summit, Strike Out Stress Wellness Bowling, Community Talks: The Game of Life, which promote healthy decision-making and civic participation.

What makes VLA unique is its peer-to-peer, empowerment-based model. Members take an active role in identifying community needs, designing solutions, and leading initiatives, supported by mentorship from prevention specialists and local leaders. Participants develop a wide range of skills, including public speaking, project management, teamwork, critical thinking, and advocacy.

Recent youth-led efforts include organizing elections for the Youth Advisory Committee, giving students the opportunity to step into leadership roles and represent their peers in program planning and community initiatives.

VLA partners with a diverse network of organizations and schools, including Culver City, Santa Monica, and Venice High Schools, the Boys and Girls Clubs, Rainbow Labs, and L.A. Care, to expand its reach. Members typically meet monthly and collaborate virtually and in-person throughout the year.

VLA envisions a future where young people lead the way toward healthier, safer communities, empowered with knowledge, leadership skills, and the courage to make positive choices for themselves and others.