Defending Our Youth Programs: Why JLBC Is Safe, Empowering, and Necessary

Kirk Carlson
Jul 13
2 min read

In today’s divided climate, programs that develop structure, discipline, and leadership in youth often face unnecessary criticism. A recent social media comment labeled the Junior Leadership Boot Camp (JLBC) as potentially “dangerous.” As a veteran, advocate, I believe it’s important to respond—respectfully, clearly, and with facts.

What Is JLBC?

The Junior Leadership Boot Camp (JLBC) is not a paramilitary force, nor is it a place for coercion or political indoctrination. It is a community-centered youth program rooted in:

✅ FEMA-certified disaster preparedness training

✅ Leadership development and civic responsibility

✅ Physical fitness and teamwork

✅ Respect for service and duty to community

JLBC operates in partnership with Covenant of Courage, a nonprofit led by veterans, educators, and parents who believe that young people need more than test scores—they need purpose, direction, and a role in protecting their communities.

Why the Concern?

In a world where structure and accountability are increasingly misunderstood, programs like JLBC are sometimes seen as “too strict” or “militaristic.” But equating discipline with danger is a false narrative. We do not train youth to fight—we train them to lead. To serve. To respond in emergencies. To become role models when others freeze.

All instructors go through background checks. Curriculum aligns with federal and state youth development standards. And all activities are voluntary, age-appropriate, and family-supported.

The Real Danger? A Generation Without Direction.

Our communities are facing:

• Rising mental health issues in teens

• Decreasing civic engagement

• Unpreparedness during emergencies and disasters

JLBC addresses all of the above—by developing leadership, building confidence, and fostering resilience.

Transparency Is Our Policy

We welcome oversight. We welcome questions. And we welcome visitors.

Any parent, educator, or city leader is invited to attend a JLBC training session or review our curriculum. Our goal is not secrecy. It’s empowerment through accountability.

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Learn more:

🌐 www.juniorleadership.net

📧 support@reasonableranks.org

📝 Petition to expand youth leadership programs: https://chng.it/5yXYvkBtMR

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At Covenant of Courage, we believe our kids deserve more than criticism—they deserve investment.

Let’s lead with facts. Let’s lead with compassion. Let’s lead with purpose.

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By Kirk Carlson

Veteran Advocate | Founder, Covenant of Courage

Corona, California