Youth Leadership Barrow

The Youth Leadership Barrow (YLB) program provides leadership development and community awareness training for 10th and 11th grade students in Barrow County.

Through collaboration with the Barrow County Chamber of Commerce, Barrow County Public Schools, Bethlehem Christian Academy, and the Wimberly Center for Community Development, aspiring youth leaders have the opportunity to interact with local decision-makers and participate in tours of local businesses. Angela Haun of Georgia Power has spearheaded this initiative for the Barrow Chamber of Commerce for several years.

During the program, students interact with community leaders, and local elected officials to enhance their awareness of community needs and resources. For example, Todd Faulkner of Zaxby's spoke about servant leadership with two of his team members. Brad Akins of Akins Ford emphasized the importance of leadership development. Sergeant Marc Pharr from Auburn City Police gave tips on interviewing.

Interactive workshops, special tours, and guest speakers enable YLB participants to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become confident, caring leaders in their community and respective schools. Youth Leadership Barrow is utilizing a leadership development curriculum from the University of Georgia Fanning Institute. Each month, students explore a different aspect of leadership. Students also focus on a specific soft skill each month, like handshakes, writing thank you notes, or making eye contact.

To apply for participation in YLB, students must:

• Demonstrate leadership potential (in school and/or the community).
• Be in good academic standing with clear attendance and behavior records.
• Willing to participate in all scheduled sessions.

The YLB program runs from August 2021 through April 2022 at the Wimberly Center for Community Development. Sessions are held once a month (with the exception of December) during the school day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This new program would not be possible without the support from our community.

Thank you to our sponsors:

• Bethlehem Church
• Georgia Power
• Jackson EMC
• Winder Insurance

Thank you also to our cooperative organizations:

• Wimberly Roots and the Wimberly Center
• Barrow Chamber of Commerce
• UGA Fanning Institute

If you are interested in participating in Youth Leadership Barrow next year, reach out to your school's Work-Based Learning Coordinator who serves as the YLB facilitator for more information.

Congratulations to our 2021-2022 YLB Graduates!