Applications available for 2011-12 Young Leaders

A select group of sophomores who attend school in Shelby County will have the opportunity to participate in the Young Leaders Institute, a leadership development class coordinated through the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce.

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The program is open to students who attend Shelby County Public Schools and Cornerstone Christian Academy - or who live in Shelby County and attend a neighboring private school or home school.

"The Chamber believes in supporting today's young people and offering them this opportunity to interact with community leaders of today, helping them develop the skills necessary to become leaders of tomorrow," Chamber Executive Director Shelley Goodwin said.

Also serving on the Young Leaders Institute Committee are Duanne Puckett, public relations coordinator for Shelby County Public Schools; Libby Adams, executive director for Shelby County Industrial & Development Foundation; and Joanna Freels, a retired teacher with Shelby County Public Schools.

There are field trips that familiarize the Young Leaders with community needs, opportunities, problems and resources. The Institute also allows them to establish effective dialogue in peer group relationships and in settings with elected officials and other key role models in Shelby County.

Young Leaders are chosen based on applications that are submitted to the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. The application process evaluates the student's school, extracurricular and community involvement, as well as his or her desire to be in the Institute. Two letters of recommendation are also required.

Applications for students who will be sophomores in the 2011-12 school year can be picked up at the both high school guidance offices, Cornerstone and at the Chamber of Commerce office at 316 Main Street. Applications should be delivered to the chamber offices by May 15.

Applications may also be downloaded from www.ShelbyCountyKyChamber.com. If you have questions about the Young Leaders Institute, please contact the chamber (633-1636).