Leadership Education Action Development

Youth L.E.A.D. Independence is a six-month leadership program sponsored by the Independence Chamber of Commerce for high school juniors in the Independence area public and private schools. The program is designed to expose young people, our future leaders, to the various elements that form a strong dynamic city. Twelve classes have graduated from the Youth L.E.A.D. program, for a total of 522 alumni.

During seven monthly sessions, students explore many aspects of our community. The sessions begin with a day-long retreat and continue with six day-long monthly sessions.

Students interact with a number of adult business and community leaders, discussing and exploring issues affecting the community. They have the chance to meet their peers and get acquainted with leaders from all sectors. Students are encouraged to discuss ideas, attitudes and experiences, while also learning about others.

2011-2012 Sponsors:

Fort Osage School District
Graceland University Independence Campus
Independence School District
St. Mary’s High School
Unilever
L.E.A.D. Alumni

The Independence Chamber of Commerce will host the 20^th class of Youth L.E.A.D. students for the school year of 2011 – 2012.   This program is an eight – month leadership program for high school juniors in the Independence area public and private schools.  The program is designed to expose young people, our future leaders, to the various elements that form a strong dynamic city.  Nineteen classes have graduated from the Youth L.E.A.D. program for a total of 589 alumni.

During eight monthly sessions students explore many aspects of our community.  The sessions begin with a day-long retreat and continue with seven day-long monthly sessions.

Students interact with a number of adult business and community leaders, discussing and exploring issues affecting the community.  A steering committee of 14 business and educational leaders as well as three students from the 2011 class plan and facilitate the program.  The students have the chance to meet their peers and get acquainted with leaders from various businesses and organizations.  Students are encourage to discuss ideas, attitudes and experiences, while also learning about others.

 The students are charged a nominal fee and sponsors cover all other costs.  The sponsorships are $300, $600 or $900.  These sponsorships assist in costs associated with the program such as meals, retreat costs, and activities.

Sponsors receive the following benefits:

• name recognition on the Reception and Graduation Programs (120 in attendance)
• invitation to attend the 2011 - 2012 class Reception and Graduation
• name recognition as a student sponsor of the program in two (2) issues of the Chamber E-News
• name recognition as a sponsor on the Chamber’s web site

If interested please send back the attached response card and payment information.  Or you may contact Teresa Freeland via return email or at 816-252-4745 with any questions.

Thank you for allowing us this opportunity to share information regarding this very worthwhile program.  We hope that you consider becoming a sponsor.

RESPONSE CARD