Leadership Through A Different Lens

Building emotional regulation, positive behaviors, and civic leadership—one frame at a time.

What Is PTH Jr. League?

Core Concept: The PTH Jr. League is an early-elementary extension of the Project Transforming Hope (PTH) Fellowship.

The Approach: Second-grade boys step into live High School Fellowship workshops as Jr. Visual Journalists to observe, photograph, and document real-world leadership, self-regulation, and citizenship in action.

The “Why”: Rather than sitting through abstract lectures, young Fellows use cameras as tools to identify positive peer behavior, learn practical self-regulation strategies, and develop the mindset of future civic leaders.

Why Second Grade? The Science of Behavior Change

Developmental Window: Research in early childhood development shows that 7- and 8-year-olds process complex social dynamics and emotional concepts visually before they can fully write or speak about them.

Translating Observation to Action: Second grade is the critical window where kids move from reactive habits to intentional behavior. By capturing living examples of integrity, active listening, and teamwork, Jr. Fellows build visual checklists of positive character traits that translate directly into better focus and behavior in the classroom.

How It Works & Program Details

Schedule & Time Commitment:

Meets once a month from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM (3.5 hours). Lunch and healthy snacks are provided at no cost.

The Daily Arc:

Every session includes a Pre-Game SEL Briefing (focusing on an emotional regulation tool), a Live Photo Mission inside the High School workshop, Studio time with professional photographers, and a guided Reflection and Captioning circle.

Cost:

100% Free. All equipment—including digital cameras, tablets, official press passes, and materials—is fully provided.

Tangible Outcomes:

Students exit the program with actionable emotional regulation tools, improved school conduct, and an individual Capstone Gallery Exhibition displaying their printed photo portfolio.

Monthly Arc & Skill Progression

October	Opening Ceremony & Press Pass Presentation	Skill: Orientation & Identity
November	Image Literacy & Museum Kickoff	Skill: How to Read an Image
December	Leadership & Teamwork (Spotting Peer Support)	Skill: Camera Fundamentals
January	Communication (Active Listening & Body Language)	Skill: Framing & Composition
February	Professionalism (Self-Regulation & Focus Under Pressure)	Skill: Light & Shadow
March	Holistic Wellness (Healthy Habits & Emotional Balance)	Skill: Capturing Motion
April	Innovation (Problem Solving & Collaboration)	Skill: Basic Photo Editing
May	Advocacy (Community Civic Action & Speaking Up)	Skill: Visual Storytelling
June	Capstone Exhibition (Public Speaking & Gallery Presentation)	Skill: Curation & Portfolio Creation

Requirements for Entry

Grade Level: Enrolled in 2nd grade.

Ideal Candidate: Shows potential for leadership, curiosity, or would benefit from emotional self-regulation and positive peer mentorship.

Referral: Nominated by school staff, a community partner, or referred by a parent.

Family Buy-In: Parent or guardian commitment to the monthly 3.5-hour session.

Nominate a Student Interested Parent? Request a Referral Sponsor a Cohort / Partner With Us Already a PTH Parent? Access Portal Here

As long as poverty, injustice & inequality persist, none of us can truly rest. It doesn’t take much to change a life, Get in touch today and start making the difference.