Applications are being accepted for Youth Leadership Somerset, a leadership development program for Somerset County youth entering grades 9-12. The application deadline is Friday, May 15.
“Youth Leadership Somerset empowers young people to become tomorrow’s leaders,” said Freeholder Peter S. Palmer, liaison to the youth leadership program. “Students will meet community leaders, be introduced to a variety of topics and resources, and be challenged to explore current issues that impact their communities.”
The class year runs September 2015 through May 2016. Sessions are held one Saturday each month for approximately four to six hours. Class members will meet community leaders from all aspects of county life, who will speak on a wide variety of topics. A different topic is introduced at each session, including leadership, economic development, human services, government, healthcare, justice and diversity.
The application can be obtained by clicking the link below or visiting the website at http://www.leadershipsomerset.org/youth_leadership_somerset.htm. Using the space allotted in the PDF file, complete the application form and send it via email to tchir@co.somerset.nj.us.
A signed version of the application and one reference letter should be mailed to: Youth Leadership Somerset, Melania Tchir, Somerset County, P.O. Box 3000, Somerville, NJ 08876-1262. The application should be postmarked no later than May 15.
Candidates will be selected in June. Those accepted to the program will receive a full scholarship to ensure that financial status is not a barrier.
Former participants of Youth Leadership Somerset have said: “Thanks for all that you do. I have truly had a great experience and learned so much through this amazing program! Thanks for all your hard work.” and “I wish to thank you for the experience that I have gained from the program. It’s an amazing program and I wish you a lot of success going forward.”
Partners of the youth program include the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Somerset County Business Partnership, Raritan Valley Community College and the United Way of Northern New Jersey.
Youth Leadership Somerset was developed by the Leadership Somerset Class of 2000. To learn more about the adult leadership program, contact leadershipsomerset@co.somerset.nj.us or visit the website at: http://www.leadershipsomerset.org/.
For more information or to apply for Youth Leadership Somerset, contact Melania Tchir at (732) 469-3363 or tchir@co.somerset.nj.us.