Our Why

In loving memory of Leo Vagias, our foundation finds its purpose and passion. Leo, a bright spirit who left us tragically in a car accident in 2016, embodied the essence of goodness and compassion. A self-described "C student," Leo measured success not in grades, but in the strength of his relationships and the depth of his friendships.

At the core of our mission is Leo's profound belief in the power of doing good, irrespective of one's background. His legacy serves as an enduring inspiration for our foundation, propelling us to focus on promoting public service and providing humanitarian relief. Leo's genuine care for his peers echoes in our commitment to fostering a world where kindness knows no bounds – transcending barriers of race, religion, and upbringing.

​Mentor Coaches / Guest Speakers

L.E.O. Students

Dollars in Scholarships Awarded
in Shark Tank

​L.E.O. Program 
Schools

​Dollars in Endowments to L.E.O. Program Schools

the l.e.o. program

The L.E.O. Program is more than a high school entrepreneurship and leadership curriculum; it's a transformative journey, exposing students to extraordinary opportunities while instilling Leo's spirit of goodness and compassion.

LEADERSHIP

​Unlock your leadership potential with the L.E.O. Program, where the spirit of Leo Vagias guides every step. Through engaging workshops and hands-on experiences, students not only learn to lead with integrity and inspire others but also carry forward Leo's legacy of caring deeply for their peers. Join us on a transformative journey – because leadership, at its core, is about making a positive impact on the world,
​just as Leo did.​

ENTREPRENUERUSHIP

​Ignite the entrepreneur in you with the L.E.O. Program, where Leo's belief in doing good resonates in every innovative venture. Our curriculum extends beyond the classroom, offering students the tools to turn ideas into reality. As aspiring entrepreneurs, you will not only cultivate creativity and business acumen but also inherit Leo's spirit of goodness, using entrepreneurship as a force for positive change in the world.

OPPORTUNITY

​The L.E.O. Program, inspired by the enduring memory of Leo Vagias, opens doors to extraordinary opportunities for high school students. Connect with industry leaders, explore diverse possibilities, and gain insights that go beyond the ordinary. As you seize these opportunities, remember that Leo's caring nature is at the heart of it all. Embrace the chance to shape your future, carrying forward the legacy of a young man who believed in doing good, regardless of background.

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NEWS

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Our impact

Discover the heart of our impact as we continually strive to give back to the community. Explore how our ongoing efforts are making a meaningful difference and creating positive change.

Giving Back

Date: March, 2023    |   
​Location: MSDA

Our LEO Program MSDA graduates find their fire and set the world ablaze with all they've learned

Date: March, 2023    |   
​Location: MSDA

Leo Lions at MSDA collected items to support women in shelters during the month of March

Date: December 20th, 2020    |   
​Location: West New York, NJ

We distributed over 600 toys to families in need at Templo Fuente De Vida

​Date: November 25th, 2020    |    Location: Clifton, NJ
Teamed up with Orange Theory Fitness to provide food for over 250 families

Date: April 28th, 2020    |    Location: Basking Ridge, NJ
​Teamed up with Frontline Morris to donate 110 dinners to Bonnie Brae School

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Date: April 23rd, 2020    |    Location: Hackensack, NJ
​Provided lunches to 30 frontline healthcare professionals at Hackensack University Medical Center

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​The Leonidas Foundation is dedicated to promoting emerging young adults with a desire for service, knowledge and fellowship

We engage in productive and humanitarian ​endeavors to foster scholarship, mentorship ​and public service with honor, prowess, and integrity