HOBY Illinois Central South (ILCS) is a chapter of Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership--an international youth development non-profit organization. With over 500,000 alumni worldwide, HOBY is a premier youth leadership organization whose mission it is to "inspire and develop our global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service, and innovation."

HOBY ILCS's flagship experience is our four-day annual conference for over 120 high school sophomores from around the state. Students go through hands-on experiences that give them the tools to gain confidence in their leadership abilities and apply them in their own communities. The HOBY curriculum is based off the Social Change Model of Leadership. The three main components of our program include Personal Leadership, Group, Leadership, and Service Leadership. Through interactive workshops, speakers, and team-building activities, participants gain insights into effective leadership and civic responsibility. HOBY fosters a supportive environment, inspiring students to become proactive leaders and engaged citizens.

2025 HOBY ILCS Seminar

Leaders Built Here: Teaching students how to think, not what to think, since 1958.

Team Members