ATTENDING LABS
Learn more about how you can attend Louisiana’s premier leadership development program.
ABOUT LABS
For over 85 years, LABS has helped students learn about Louisiana’s system of government.
SUPPORT LABS
Invest in the future leaders of Louisiana by financially supporting the program.
About Louisiana Boys State
Louisiana Boys State (LABS) is the premier leadership development program for young men in the state of Louisiana. Sponsored by the Louisiana Department of the American Legion, LABS is dedicated to providing a hands-on learning environment in which participants (termed “Citizens”) not only learn the ins and outs of the Louisiana political system but also learn how to transform themselves into effective leaders in their school, community, state, and country.
During the program Citizens are surrounded by similar young men, those who – like they – have distinguished themselves as leaders. They join an organization that has existed in Louisiana for more than 80 years and are among an elite group of men who have gone on to become business leaders, doctors, legislators, governors and presidents.
Program Educational Model
Louisiana Boys State uses the “immersive educational experience” model to meet its twin goals – educating young men about local and state government and developing leadership skills through which they can influence their community, state, and nation.
Our Philosophy
Student participants (termed Citizens) are tasked with creating a functional government at the City, Parish, and State level. LABS is guided by a “learn by doing” philosophy that encompasses everything from teaching about government to leadership development.
Other Opportunties
Citizens have the opportunity to interact with leaders from across the state including local and state government officials, business leaders, members of the media, and military officers. Speakers from a variety of backgrounds offer their own perspective on what leadership and public service mean in the real world.
OUR SPONSOR
THE AMERICAN LEGION
The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.
