United Way of Laurens County Launches Youth Advisory Program to Empower Future Leaders
July 26, 2023
United Way of Laurens County (UWLC) recently announced the launch of its innovative Youth Advisory Program, aiming to engage and empower the youth of the community. This program comes with an open invitation to all youth, as there is no limit to the number of participants – the more, the merrier! The initiative seeks to harness the fresh perspectives and creative ideas of young minds to better the community they call home.
The primary purpose of this Youth Advisory Program is to encourage the youth in the area to actively participate in shaping their community’s future. By providing a platform for them to voice their opinions and share their ideas, the program aims to cultivate a sense of ownership and responsibility among the younger generation. Through this initiative, the UWLC hopes to foster a culture of community engagement and instill the importance of giving back through volunteering and understanding the role of nonprofits.
“We believe that the youth of our community possess incredible potential to make a positive impact. We want to provide them with opportunities to understand the role of nonprofits and the value of volunteering while enabling them to contribute to the betterment of Laurens County,” said Justine Pronk, the program lead for UWLC.
The program targets high school and college-age students, as they represent a dynamic age group with diverse ideas and energy. In an effort to promote intergenerational support and mentorship, the UWLC encourages college students to participate as mentors for their younger counterparts. This collaborative approach aims to create a supportive environment for the exchange of ideas and experiences.
“We are enthusiastic about having college students act as mentors, guiding and inspiring the younger participants. This mentorship aspect will foster leadership skills and create a network of support within the community,” commented Tahj Carter, Youth Advisory Program Chair and rising junior at Clinton High.
Several exciting ideas and plans are already in the works to engage youth who join the program. Among these ideas are the establishment of a chess club to promote critical thinking and strategic skills, as well as hosting a car wash fundraiser at the Sweetheart Garden location to raise funds for community initiatives. Workshops in the garden will also be organized, offering valuable knowledge on harvesting, planting, and sustainable gardening practices that can be shared with the community.
“We want to offer a diverse range of experiences, from engaging in recreational activities to learning valuable life skills. By visiting different nonprofits in Laurens County, we aim to broaden their understanding of the community’s needs and the various ways to address them,” added Kennedy Wright, Youth Advisory Program board member, mentor to Tahj Carter, and a graduate of Presbyterian College.
The Laurens County United Way’s Youth Advisory Program is set to be a transformative initiative, empowering the youth to become proactive and influential members of the community. By providing a platform for their ideas and encouraging hands-on involvement, the program aims to instill a spirit of compassion and community service that will stay with these young leaders throughout their lives.
For more information and to participate in the Youth Advisory Program, interested youth can reach out to Justine Pronk at [email protected].
