Warren Preparing Next Generation Of Community Leaders

The Warren County Youth Leadership program is cultivating the next generation of leaders by teaching life skills, entrepreneurship, and teamwork.

Chamber of Commerce Social Media Manager Lakelinn Simmons said this year’s group includes 11 high school juniors. She said when students reach their junior year, they begin to make connections about what leadership means in their lives. Simmons said the students will participate in monthly classes and complete a community service project.

“It’s important because they learn so many life skills throughout this class like communication and team building,” Simmons said. “And they really carry it on into college and their future work life as well.”

This year, the students have focused on McMinnville’s homeless population for their project, Simmons said. She said the future leaders will request sponsorships from local businesses for a supplies drive to collect items like socks, blankets, and personal hygiene items.

“They really do learn so much throughout the program,” Simmons said. “It looms great on college applications and they just gain so many skills throughout the year that they will continue to carry on throughout their lives.”

Simmons said March’s class was built around learning about leadership in healthcare. She said students also get to hear from local non-profit representatives to learn how selfless leadership drives a community’s most meaningful change and growth.

“They get to really meet all of the movers and shakers around McMinnville and Warren County, and we’ve even had a few go on to job-shadow these community leaders as well,” Simmons said.

Those who wish to donate to the Pack For A Purpose donation drive can do so at several Warren County locations including the Rock Island Trolley Shop and the Chamber. Potential donors can also reach out to Simmons at (931) 473-6611.