2019 Kentucky Extension Community Assessment results for Clinton County indicated the following prioritized issues in community vitality: more qualified leaders to prepare community for the future, more youth community leadership opportunities, and more citizens helping solve local issues. To address this need, a Teen Leadership Clinton County Program was developed and implemented by the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent in partnership with the 21st Century Community Learning Coordinator. Eleven youth were selected to participate. Sessions included leadership styles, communication skills, conflict resolution, team building, community needs and capacity building, time management, and other leadership development skills. 

100% of youth indicated increased knowledge of effective leadership skills and more confidence in their own leadership and communication skills. When asked to share how the program has helped them grow as leaders, youth shared the following: “Talking to others more confidently”; “I have learned there is multiple ways to lead”; and “I have learned speaking skills to help me feel more confident when sharing new ideas”. 

Although the initial program design was for eight sessions, participants indicated the desire to continue the program over the summer months and extend into the next school year. They have identified community needs that they would like to address including substance abuse, mentoring of younger students, a social marketing campaign, and engaging the public in discussion of what they would like to see in the community. 

Helping participants and volunteers become leaders is a core value of Extension. Teen Leadership Clinton County will continue to provide opportunities for these young leaders to enhance their skills and take community level action with social and economic impact.