Youth leaders of Douglas County
Youth Leadership Douglas County (YLDC) is a year-long series of field trips and activities to encourage leadership skills and expand the horizons of Douglas County high school students.
YLDC participants are school-excused to meet once a month for a day-long, hands-on experience in the areas of law enforcement, media, health, finance, fire safety, natural history and more. These activities, including visits with local legislators and county commissioners, educate the students about the community and their place in it.
YLDC began in 2005 as a service project of Leadership Douglas County, which set the course for teens with a belief that no one person can lead alone. The mantra of the program is “I’ve got your back.”
The program usually kicks off with a Challenge Ropes Course, where students work together to build a foundation of teamwork.
During each session, students work in team environments and learn how to handle responsibility as an individual and as part of a team. Each class is held with community stakeholders, and includes a leadership component, open discussion and a team presentation. The sessions are designed to push the students’ limits while they explore new subjects and environments.
There are approximately 30 participants in this year’s YLDC program. Many joined to learn more about their community, while others wanted to enhance their social skills and meet leaders in Douglas County.
“The program is designed to provide students with experiential learning versus a classroom setting,” said Kristine Turner, program director for YLDC, who added that you do not have to be an adult to lead. “Kids can be leaders with their siblings, friends and in sports.”
Students interested in YLDC do not have to be active in any other school activities to enroll. The cost per person is $495.
For more information, email Kristine at kristineturner05@gmail.com.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Kristine Turner, Youth Leadership Douglas County