Youth Leadership Academy participants transform learning experiences into action

Support from mentors and community partners help Twin Ports 9th graders blossom as leaders

The KIDS PLUS Youth Leadership Academy has been helping young people develop their skills since 1999. This program annually reaches approximately 50 ninth graders and a dozen adult mentors to realize, hone, and put into practice their leadership abilities.

“The Northland Foundation KIDS PLUS team works with people in the local schools to invite diverse students from public, private, charter, and home-schooling to participate. These are students who are not necessarily team captains or student council members,” stated Lynn Haglin, Vice President/KIDS PLUS Director. “This program proves that all young people have potential; they only need encouragement to realize it.”

A sampling of year-end comments from youth, their parents, and adult mentors highlight program impacts:

"I learned that adults are always willing to listen and help by sharing from their experiences, you just have to ask." (youth)

"Over the past year it has been heartwarming to see the growth and development of the youth participants." (mentor)

"The adult mentors engaged in this program have made a positive impact on my child." (parent)

There is science and art to guiding ninth graders through leadership learning. The volunteer adult mentors play a vital part, giving of their time and knowledge. The students and adult mentors participate together in an orientation and retreat in September, followed by 10 workshops during the school year. The first five sessions cover topics such as understanding leadership styles, communication skills, problem-solving, career exploration, and team-building. The final five workshops are aimed at planning their youth-driven community service project.

This year's service project benefitted the Lake Superior Zoo and the Valley Youth Center. All together, the young people raised $1,200 in cash along with in-kind donations to buy the materials for their projects. At the Zoo, youth and mentors created an impressive outdoor play area and organized activities for children and families. At the Valley Youth Center, a program which provides afterschool opportunities to low-income children, the students worked hard on raised garden beds.

Sponsors and donors empower developing leaders

Another essential aspect to this program is the critical funding support provided by the community and funding partners.

“Sponsors and donors not only allow us to offer this program at no charge to families but also make participation more meaningful for young people. Students see that individuals, businesses, and organizations in their communities are invested in them as future leaders,” said Tony Sertich, Northland Foundation’s President.

We thank the following generous supporters: