Young Philatelic Leaders Fellowship

This past summer The American Philatelic Society initiated the Young Philatelic Leaders Fellowship (YPLF).

The newly formed group encourages the development of the next generation of stamp collectors, writers, exhibitors and dealers.

According to an APS press release, "For years, many of the brightest and most energetic young collectors have found that, while they are welcomed into philately and encouraged to begin, there is no ready way for them to enter into and learn on a long-term basis from the world of organized philately — very much an adult world, and one that can appear cold, unreceptive, and intimidating to young people."

It goes on to say, "YPLF exists to break down that wall — to enable young people who already have shown a sustained interest in stamp collecting to have an enriching and dynamic experience with a specific aspect of the stamp hobby, selected by them in partnership with a series of adult mentors."

YPLF has two age groups: Junior Fellows, ages 13 through 17, and Senior Fellows, ages 18 through 25. Junior Fellows participate in the Fellowship for one year, and Senior Fellows participate for two years. Junior and Senior Fellows, after an introduction to the program, will choose one of three tracks on which to focus: a Dealer Track, an Exhibitor Track, or an Author Track.

The APS invites all stamp collectors to join in this effort by supporting it with their time, treasure and talents.

Beginning January 1st, applications for Young Philatelic Leadership Fellows will be accepted until the deadline of March 31, 2009.

Click here to see how you can get involved and make a difference in the future of the hobby.