CLAY - Cultivating Legacy Among You

The CLAY Program helps Atlanta’s youth discover purpose, develop leadership skills, and grow into confident young adults. CLAY stands for Cultivating Legacy Among You — because leadership is grown in community and carried forward as a legacy.

Each CLAY member participates in mentorship, discussion, and community projects designed to build self-awareness, confidence, and collaboration. The program includes:

  • Monthly one-hour in-person leadership sessions
  • Weekly 30-minute online webinars or workshops
  • Guest speakers and industry mentors
  • Team-based community initiatives and service projects

CLAY is a free initiative supported by community sponsors, local businesses, and mentors who believe in shaping tomorrow’s leaders today. Participants gain lifelong skills in communication, professionalism, and leadership while contributing to their community.

A Letter from the Founder

As a young person, I learned that leadership isn’t a title — it’s a commitment to serve and to leave people better than you found them. That’s legacy. And legacy is cultivated daily through small, intentional actions.

CLAY exists to help you cultivate that legacy — to develop your voice, your confidence, and your capacity to lead. With mentorship, guidance, and real-world experiences, I want every participant to know their influence matters and their story can shape change.

This program carries deep personal meaning for me. It’s named in memory of my brother, Clarence “Clay” Chandler — a reminder that our impact on others is the truest form of legacy. Through CLAY, his name continues to inspire growth, purpose, and leadership in every young person who takes part.

Together, we’re building more than a program. We’re cultivating a community of young leaders who will grow, serve, and lead for years to come.

— Rod
Founder, CLAY Program

CLAY is a movement to cultivate legacy — one leader, one decision, one act of service at a time.

Apply to Join CLAY

We’re excited that you’re interested in becoming part of CLAY — Cultivating Legacy Among You. This program gives Atlanta’s youth a platform to grow through mentorship, teamwork, and community leadership experiences.

Applicants should be between the ages of 15 and 17 and ready to participate in both monthly in-person meetings and short weekly virtual sessions.

Complete the short form below to apply. Selected applicants will be contacted for a brief orientation session.