The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Applications being taken for youth program
United Way of Lake County announced that it is now accepting applications for its 2018 Youth United Way program which begins in January.
YUW of Lake County is an annual youth directed initiative run by the Young Leaders of United Way of Lake County, according to a news release.
The program is for high school students interested in developing leadership skills while learning about community needs and volunteer opportunities. Throughout the program, students engage in site visits to local nonprofit agencies where they learn about the services they provide and the clients they serve.
“Students learn how to mobilize resources, allocate funds and impact the community through the spirit of service,” said Tami Lewis, director of marketing and communications for United Way of Lake County, in the news release. “And the program is a fascinating eye-opener for students. Most have no idea how much need there is right here in their own community.”
The YUW program takes place over six sessions beginning on Jan. 28 and ending on April 15. At the end of the program, the students take what they’ve learned and, in collaboration with one another, decide which non-profit programs in Lake County they will award real funds to.
According to the release, the YUW program works to:
• Develop and nurture leadership skills through teamwork, problem solving and compromise
• Connect students with community leaders across Lake County
• Develop a sense of philanthropic ownership in the community
• Improve the community through youth-led service projects
• Foster an understanding about the types of programs and services available in Lake County
• Teach students about the process of allocating funds
• Nurture the importance of keeping youth and community connected
• Give students professional experiences through networking and decision making.
Applications, a program schedule, and more information about the YUW program can be at www.uwlc.org/youthunited-way. Interested parties may also call 440-639-1236.