Submitted by Nichole Ivey, Strategies for a Stronger Sanford
On Thursday, April 9th 36 of our youth in grades 7 to 12 participated in Maine Youth Leadership Day at the Hyde School in Bath, Maine. Student leaders were chosen to attend by adult representatives from the Cadets, the YMCA, JMG, Strategies for a Stronger Sanford Youth Council, and Sanford Parks and Recreation. Throughout the day, students took part in workshops covering a variety of topics ranging from beyond bullying to what it means to be a leader to substance use prevention. Chaperones remarked at how engaged and participatory Sanford students were, perhaps best evidenced by the fact that over half of our leaders volunteered to share something they learned during the conference, in front of the other 600 attendees from 39 other schools! Our students discussed how they can integrate their enhanced leadership skills and ability into their respective groups, daily lives, and the Sanford community. Congratulations to our young leaders on a productive day and a sincere thank you to all who participated. These skills translate well into helping to make Sanford a stronger community! With these young leaders at the helm, our future is bright!
