Youth Leadership Program Applications Due February 26

PITTSFIELD, MA – The Youth Leadership Program, a program of the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and 1Berkshire, is currently accepting applications for the Youth Leadership Class of 2017. Now entering its seventh year, the Youth Leadership Program develops the next generation of community leaders by preparing them for constructive and responsible involvement in community affairs and by encouraging serious thought about career paths in the Berkshires. Applicants must be current high school sophomores, entering their junior year this fall, and all paperwork and online applications must be received at the Chamber/1Berkshire office, located at 66 Allen Street, by 4:00 PM on Friday, February 26, 2016.

The Youth Leadership Program kicks off with a retreat the weekend of July 29-31. Conducted by professional facilitators, the retreat includes training in all aspects of leadership and problem-solving techniques; and gives participants the opportunity to experience a supervised, simulated college experience. The retreat is followed by ten monthly, 12:30 – 4:30 afternoon sessions focusing on specific topics, such as government, economic development, the creative economy, education, healthcare, and leadership.

Applicants will be chosen by a Selection Committee comprised of members of the business community and will be based on demonstrated leadership qualities both inside and outside the classroom. A maximum of 30 students will be selected using the completed online application, brief essays, and an interview process; as well as a GPA and attendance requirement. Candidates may or may not have prior experience in leadership roles in their school or community instead will be selected based on their leadership potential.

The Youth Leadership Program is generously sponsored by the Berkshire Bank Foundation, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Cohen Kinne Valicenti and Cook, LLP, and Berkshire County Regional Employment Board. To obtain an application, visit http://bit.ly/1nqTeDj or if you have questions about the program call our office at 413-499-1600, ext. 117. Applications must be completed online and full and received by 4:00 PM on February 26, 2016 to be considered. The Tuition Fee for the program is $100 and limited tuition assistance is available, based on need.