Youth Leadership

A desire to serve in the community and gain valuable leadership skills is what as motivated young people to apply to United Way’s Youth Leadership Program for over 13 years. Thirty high school students from Southern Litchfield County participate in the program each year.

Teens participating in the program attend Camp Sloane in Lakeville, Ct to become oriented to the program and to bond as a team.  They are exposed to seminars on developing confidence, public speaking, presentation skills and leading meetings effectively. Additionally the teens participate in team building exercises such as high and low ropes courses.

Annually, the youth leadership team researches the needs of young people in our community and makes available a Request for Proposals (RFP) to area non-profits. This past year some of the key issues identified were a need for more after school activities for children, safe driving, and the effects of peer pressure and bullying. Grants of up to $1,000 are then issued by the leadership team to meet the identified needs.

During the year, youth leaders also serve as volunteers at a variety of community activities, such as the annual Back to School Clothing Drive, Food Drives, and Bike Day.