RICHLAND COUNTY – The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development will facilitate the Young Leaders Institute for the 2024-2025 school year. The program introduces students to community engagement opportunities in Richland County.
The program is open to current high school sophomores enrolled in a Richland County public school, private school, or homeschool. Students will visit geographic regions of the county to explore businesses, healthcare systems, local governments, and attractions. Students will participate in a nonprofit service project.
The program was launched during the 2023-2024 school year with 39 students from every school district in Richland County. Students developed as leaders and visited organizations to learn about tourism, health and wellness, local government, and economic development. “It was a privilege to witness students from different school districts develop friendships and learn to work together as a team,” said program director Angie Cirone. “Students were interested in career pathways and community initiatives in place to grow Richland County.”
Students also completed a capstone project on marketing the Sterkel Community Park for All.
“I loved the opportunity to be a part of this program,” said Payne Schwartz of Ontario High School. “It allowed me to foster growth opportunities in my leadership skills while allowing me to understand my community better.”
High school sophomores can learn about the program details and apply by Sept. 13. https://richlandareachamber.com/workforce/young-leaders-institute/
The program takes place on the first Wednesdays in October, November, December, February, March, and May from 9:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. January and April are skipped to avoid winter break and spring break.
This program is free for students, and there are 45 spots. Richland County Youth and Family Council and corporate sponsors fund the program.