Building the Next Generation of Leaders: JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage
- Kirk Carlson
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
In a time when leadership, resilience, and service are needed more than ever, JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage are stepping forward to reshape what youth and veteran empowerment look like across America. Founded by Kirk Carlson, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Aircraft Rescue Firefighter and seasoned community leader, these two organizations are creating real change by building purpose-driven leaders from the ground up—starting with cadets, veterans, and first responders.
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🔵 JLBC Cadet Corps: Youth Leadership in Action
The JLBC Cadet Corps (Junior Leadership Bootcamp Cadet Corps) is a youth leadership and development program for young people aged 12–18. Drawing inspiration from military discipline, emergency preparedness, and civic duty, the program prepares teens for futures in military service, firefighting, law enforcement, emergency management, and community leadership.
Core Objectives:
• Leadership training through structured classes, physical training, and real-world drills
• Emergency response education, including FEMA courses like IS-0026 (Points of Distribution), IS-100, and CERT
• Fitness and tactical training based on Marine Corps and fire academy standards
• Mental resilience building through mentorship, team-building, and crisis recovery exercises
• Civic engagement and community service, reinforcing values of honor, courage, and service
JLBC Cadets have been praised for their commitment, drive, and discipline. Many graduate the program with certifications, real-world skills, and a strong sense of direction. With chapters expanding in Riverside, Corona, and San Diego, California, JLBC is recruiting instructors, fitness coaches, curriculum writers, and volunteers.
“We’re building leaders, not just followers. Our cadets are getting in shape, finding their purpose, and learning how to lead with integrity.” – Kirk Carlson
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🟡 Covenant of Courage: Purpose After the Uniform
Covenant of Courage is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to empowering veterans, youth, and people in crisis. Whether someone is transitioning out of the military, struggling with PTSD, or rebuilding after adversity, Covenant of Courage offers programs rooted in purpose, fitness, community, and leadership.
Key Programs:
• Warrior Bootcamp – Tactical fitness and mindset training for veterans and first responders
• Crisis-to-Purpose Recovery Workshops – Mental health support, peer mentoring, and empowerment coaching
• FEMA-Certified Disaster Response Teams – Training in emergency preparedness, POD operations, animal care in disasters, and more
• Veteran-Led Youth Training – JLBC instructors and mentors with lived experience
• Community Outreach & Advocacy – Campaigns like #ReasonableRanks pushing for military discharge reform and support for non-deployable service members
Covenant of Courage is also expanding partnerships with local organizations like the Janet Goeske Foundation, where new mental health and empowerment workshops for senior veterans are launching.
“You don’t run from the storm. You are the storm. That’s what we teach our members. To endure, to lead, and to fight for others.” – Covenant of Courage Motto
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🔴 The Powerful Alliance
Together, JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage form a pipeline of purpose:
• Veterans find healing, leadership roles, and renewed purpose as instructors
• Youth gain real-world skills, certifications, and inspiration from those who served
• Communities benefit from stronger emergency preparedness, mentorship, and service projects
This powerful intersection of creativity, resilience, and tactical excellence is transforming lives.
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🔗 Get Involved
Whether you’re a:
• Veteran ready to mentor
• Teen looking for purpose and discipline
• Parent seeking opportunities for your child
• Donor or foundation ready to support real change
JLBC Cadet Corps and Covenant of Courage want to hear from you.
🖊 Sign the petition: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR
🌐 Learn more: www.covenantofcourage.com | www.jlbccadetcorps.com
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