The training component involves 2 hour interactive meetings held once per month on development, advocacy, leadership, civic engagement, organizing, equity-related topics, and self and community care. The meeting offers an opportunity for joint strategizing, peer support, and for youth to provide updates on their project development and implementation.

The practice component includes the implementation of “educational justice” projects. Projects are selected and carried out by 10 teams across Sonoma County with 4 to 8 participants in each team. Each team has their own educational justice project that centers around building healthier and more equitable schools and or Sonoma County communities. The project takes any form but should, in some way, address a challenge or need shared by other youth in the County. Projects may include direct action campaigns that demand changes in educational policies or practices. Each team is offered $1000 to carry out their project. Team members present the outcome of their project at the end of the program.

¡DALE! incorporates mentorship to support students’ efforts and outcomes. Participants receive feedback, guidance, and support from local mentors. Each team of students is matched with a mentor based on their project goals. ¡DALE! mentors are selected based on the interests, experiences and goals of students in the program. mentor-mentee matching selections must be developmental and adapted to each mentee as personal and professional needs require. The mentors help team members to craft campaign ideas, map the political terrain, and plan adequate, effective, and bold ways to execute their project. Team members are expected to check-in with their mentors once every two weeks for at least 1.5 hours. Communication between mentors and mentees can be in person [following safety protocols], over the phone, or videoconferencing. Mentors also assist DALE students with budget management.