What is HOBY and what do they stand for?

I've seen people mention HOBY in online forums, but I'm not entirely sure what it is. Can anyone give me some more information? What do they stand for and what kind of programs do they offer?

HOBY, or Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership, is a non-profit organization that aims to inspire and develop a global community of youth leaders who are dedicated to service and leadership. Founded in 1958 by actor Hugh O'Brian, the organization aims to empower high school students through various programs, seminars, and workshops that focus on personal leadership skills, group dynamics, and global citizenship.

Some of the programs offered by HOBY include:

1. State Leadership Seminars: Typically held in the spring, these 2-4 day seminars allow participants to engage in thought-provoking discussions, team-building exercises, and service projects. Students across the nation come together to discuss various topics such as effective communication, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making.

2. The World Leadership Congress (WLC): A week-long event held annually, the WLC brings together students from across the United States and around the world to dive deeper into leadership development, engage with global issues, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

3. Community Leadership Workshops (CLeW): These one-day workshops take place in local communities and provide high school freshmen with leadership training and service opportunities. CLeWs often focus on topics such as personal responsibility, community involvement, and overcoming personal challenges.

4. Virtual programs: Due to the ongoing pandemic, HOBY provides virtual programs that explore various leadership topics through online sessions, allowing students to participate from their homes without sacrificing the interactive experience.

Students who participate in HOBY programs have the opportunity to learn valuable life skills, gain new perspectives, and make lifelong friendships. In addition, involvement in a HOBY program can be a valuable addition to a college application, as it demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, leadership, and community service.