By By Beth Randall / 4-H youth agent
Aug. 31, 2003
I want you to know that I am excited. I get excited when we can offer great learning opportunities for youth and that at the same time they can have fun. The reason for my excitement is that a new year for Leadership Lauderdale Youth is just around the corner.
I know that you have heard about Leadership Lauderdale Youth. This great program is now beginning its third year.
Leadership Lauderdale Youth brings together a diverse group of high school juniors to participate in a program focused on developing an understanding of personal leadership styles, learning personal and community responsibilities, and reviewing character development.
This program also provides an overview of Meridian and Lauderdale County, including local government and business community, as well as an introduction to area leaders and career opportunities. It is a great way to gain practical skills for developing future leaders of our community.
Leadership Lauderdale Youth consists of a one-night retreat and 5 one-day monthly meetings. The retreat will feature team-building activities. The leadership material, "7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens" by Sean Covey, will be the basis for the program.
Program topics of the monthly meetings will citizenship, education and workforce preparation, crime and justice, business and industry and quality of life. The monthly meetings will include tours, group discussions, guest speakers and problem solving activities.
This program is funded in part by a grant from the Riley Foundation. Since the program will take place on a school day, students must have school permission to participate.
Applications have been delivered to participating schools. Home school students may pick up applications at the Lauderdale County Extension Service on the fifth Floor of the Courthouse Annex. Completed applications are due to the Lauderdale County Extension Service by Sept. 16 at 5 p.m.
This program is a terrific opportunity for our community to join together to show our youth what we have to offer. Adults can play an active role in this program by encouraging youth apply, pledging financial support or by volunteering to assist with the program.
For more information on Leadership Lauderdale Youth contact me at 482-9764 or Wayne Edwards at 483-1419.
Youth rally
The Family Matters Youth Rally will be here in just three weeks, and I know you will want to attend. This year's youth rally will be Sept. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Neshoba County Coliseum.
The doors will open at 5 p.m. so you can get registered, grab a bite to eat from the concession stand and claim your free T-shirt before the program begins.
Participants bringing a stuffed animal will receive a free youth rally T-shirt designed by 4-H member, Lydia Burns. The T-shirt has the theme "Unlocking Your Full Potential." The stuffed animals will be donated to Wesley House.
The speaker will be nationally recognized motivational speaker John Paul Murphy. The target audience is youth 12-18 and their parents and youth leaders.
Mr. Murphy will discuss being a real person; liking all people; aiming high, reaching for the stars; and how not to take yourself too seriously. His motivational topics on leadership, human relations, communications and group dynamics have been presented in every part of the United States.
Mr. Murphy is currently the 4-H Youth Development Specialist with Utah State University Extension Service.
In addition to a great speaker, the Youth Rally will include a fashion show, door prizes, games and activities and a break-out session for adults. You groups are welcome to attend.
We are looking forward to another great event.
For more information, call your County Extension Office. The number in Lauderdale County is 482-9764.