Mission
The purpose of Youth Leadership Dyer County is to conduct an annual training program for high school students who have demonstrated tendencies toward leadership abilities which will develop a corps of informed, committed and competent youth motivated to learn more about our community, to assume leadership roles in our schools, and to become more involved in our civic, cultural, economic development, and philanthropic organizations and groups.
Community Involvement
Participating in Youth Leadership Dyer County provides an opportunity for students to connect to the many civic and volunteer organizations that work to better our neighborhoods, improve the lives of our citizens, and much more. These clubs and associations welcome new leaders and fresh ideas. Through Leadership Dyer County the change in you can spark the change needed throughout the entire community.
The Program
Each session offers opportunities to learn valuable leadership principles and practical leadership skills. Through panel discussions, class reports, field trips, interactive exercises, and interviews with key leaders, the students will come to understand the successes and challenges that Dyer County faces today. Through the program students will explore different areas of our community, such as Healthcare, Economic Development, Government, Agri-business, Industry, Small Business Development & Tourism.
Youth Leadership Objectives
- To familiarize the participants with the issues and resources available in the community.
- To introduce students to team building techniques, goal setting strategies, and leadership fundamentals.
- To familiarize the students with the leadership opportunities available to them in our community.
- To encourage students to remain in or return to Dyer County following their secondary school education.
Who can participate?
Participation in Youth Leadership Dyer County is open to all High School Sophomores who attend either Dyersburg High School or Dyer County High School and is limited to 36-40 students. Applicants must be in good academic standing and have no attendance or disciplinary problems at their school. The Selection Committee reviews all applications and chooses a diverse class of motivated, concerned students who express concern about improving the community and the potential leadership ability to contribute to the betterment of our County.
When do classes meet?
The program begins with a two-day overnight team building trip to Camp Mack Morris in mid October and ends with graduation in May. Normally, sessions are held once a month on a Tuesday. Participants are required to attend all sessions. Anyone missing more than two classes will not graduate with their class.
Funding
All costs of Youth Leadership Dyer County are being underwritten by corporate sponsorship provided by Security Bank.
Application Process
Students may obtain application forms from the Guidance Offices at Dyer County High School or Dyersburg High School, or the Dyersburg/Dyer County Chamber of Commerce.
For more information about the Leadership Alumni program, contact Brianna Roser at 731-285-3433 or broser@dyerchamber.com
