Jerry J. Dawson Civic Leadership Institute

Own Your Future. Change Our World.

The Jerry J. Dawson Civic Leadership Institute (DCLI) is a strategic, long-term initiative that empowers students in the Decatur Public Schools and young graduates to explore career pathways that serve their community while building a strong sense of civic responsibility.

DCLI activities tie civic responsibility to job opportunities in public safety, healthcare, public policy, and governance. Students in the program also gain an understanding of how their personal decisions affect their own lives and those of others through the development and fostering of personal values and growth.

Upcoming Events

Jul 20, 2026, 8:00 AM – Jul 22, 2026, 11:00 AM
DCLI Summer Soccer Camp
3080 S Business Rte 51, 3080 S Business Rte 51, Decatur, IL 62521, USA
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Jul 20, 2026, 8:00 AM – Jul 22, 2026, 11:00 AM
3080 S Business Rte 51, 3080 S Business Rte 51, Decatur, IL 62521, USA
The Dawson Civic Leadership Institute is offering a free 2026 summer soccer camp for boys and girls in 3rd through 6th grade, led by camp coordinators Andreas and Aiven Walker. The camp is limited to 15 participants. Sign up today!
Jul 20, 2026, 8:00 AM – Jul 23, 2026, 12:00 PM
CONFERENCE: Young Men Only
Decatur, 3080 S Business Rte 51, Decatur, IL 62521, USA
Learn more
Jul 20, 2026, 8:00 AM – Jul 23, 2026, 12:00 PM
Decatur, 3080 S Business Rte 51, Decatur, IL 62521, USA
DCLI Young Men Only is focused on creating a sate space for conversation, experiences, growth and development for men 15 to 24 years old
Jul 22, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
DCLI Health Professions Club
Decatur Memorial Hospital, Classroom C, 2300 N Edward St, Decatur, IL 62526, USA
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Jul 22, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Decatur Memorial Hospital, Classroom C, 2300 N Edward St, Decatur, IL 62526, USA
The DCLI Health Professions Club's mission is to inspire and empower students to discover their passion for healthcare while building skills, confidence, and a sense of community responsibility.