Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and Pierce County Family Connection have partnered with Pierce County High School Student Council to launch a Youth Legacy Leadership Program.
The new initiative is a supplemental program created in response to the postponement of the chamber’s traditional Student Leadership Academy and Youth Civic Health Board programs.
Necessary preparations for the two postponed programs were not completed prior to filling the vacancy of the executive director position at the chamber.
Wanting to fill the unexpected gap, Malayna Wetherington had contacted the chamber to propose the new program, which will be overseen by the executive director Christi Pitts and Stephanie Bell, Director of Pierce County Family Connection. “The new program is not a replacement, but something that will work in addition to the others,” says Pitts. “This ensures that student-elected officials are not left unprepared for their roles.”
Youth Legacy Leadership curriculum primarily focuses on imparting leadership skills and how students can institute change in their schools and communities. With an emphasis on sustainability, the program prioritizes long term positive impact.
Students will explore various leadership styles, including communication, creativity, change, servant, visionary and transformational leadership. Each session involves discussions and hands-on activities.
A key component of the program is the creation of a legacy project. In small groups, students will collaborate to design and implement initiatives that positively impact their school and community.
“It’s incredible to see how engaged these young leaders are,” says Pitts. “Their enthusiasm and dedication give us great hope for the future of Pierce County.”
“These students are poised to do amazing things. Their commitment to learning and their drive to effect change reflect the potential they hold for reimagining a high school where everyone’s needs are met.”
Pitts invites interested community members and local organizations to help invest in these students through sponsorships. Pitts also said the tentative plan is for the more familiar Student Leadership Academy and Youth Civic Health Board programs to return in the 2025-2026 school year.
As the selected students embark on this new journey, one thing seems certain: the future is bright, and these students will be ready to lead the way.
Daisy Cruz, Kallye Gay and JJ Sierra pause for a pic while building a well balanced contraption.
