
PLDP 2025 Cohort
Parity Leadership Development Graduate Spotlight: The 2025 Cohort Capstone
The Parity Inc. Class of 2025 culminated their transformative leadership journey by hosting a highly successful capstone project: The Youth Leadership & Wellness Kickback. Held in September at the Premier Health YMCA of Greater Dayton, this dynamic event was designed and executed entirely by the 2025 Cohort to empower local youth. Recognizing a vital need to foster resilience and healthy habits in the next generation, the cohort created a welcoming, relaxed environment where young people could learn, grow, and take charge of their well-being. This project beautifully reflected the cohort’s commitment to civic stewardship, translating the strategic lessons learned throughout their program into direct, measurable action for Dayton’s youth.
From the initial planning stages to the final execution, the 2025 Cohort demonstrated the true essence of servant leadership and collaboration. The “Kickback” was a resounding success, perfectly balancing community education with high-energy fun. Attendees were treated to a DJ, line dancing, engaging MCs, and catered food, keeping the youth completely captivated. Beyond the celebration, the cohort facilitated life-changing giveaways, including laptops, tablets, book scholarships, and a one-year YMCA membership. Crucially, the event also served as a comprehensive community resource fair, connecting families directly with essential regional institutions, including Montgomery County Public Health, Sinclair College, Central State University, Fifth Third Bank, and the Miami Valley Urban League.
For the 2025 graduates, the event was a profound exercise in operational resilience and alliance building. Navigating the complexities of event planning—voting, debating, and aligning their visions—forged an unbreakable bond among the members, leaving them “locked in for life”. The cohort extends its deepest gratitude to their families, volunteers, community partners, and Parity Inc. leadership for their unwavering support. By addressing service gaps and leaving attendees inspired, the 2025 Cohort proved that they are not just graduates, but foundational leaders actively shaping the future of the Greater Dayton area.