Youth leadership is a vital part of helping young people transition successfully from childhood to adulthood. It empowers them to discover and cultivate their leadership potential, harnessing their energy and enthusiasm to contribute meaningfully to their communities (Jones, 2009; Redmond & Dolan, 2014). In collaboration with the Mercer County Chamber of Commerce and the Cooperative Extension Service, we proudly offer the Mercer County Youth Leadership Program. This annual initiative targets high school juniors, focusing on leadership development, career exploration, and community engagement. This year, we successfully engaged 19 high school juniors in our intensive seven-month program. 

The primary goal of the Youth Leadership Program is to equip each student with a deeper understanding of their community and raise awareness of the leadership opportunities available to them. Throughout the program, students acquire essential leadership and problem-solving skills, connect with community leaders, and engage in meaningful discussions aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Mercer County. 

Each month, participants tackle new challenges that foster intellectual, creative, social, and personal growth. The program covers critical topics such as the significance of community service, agriculture, tourism, local organizations, government, and economic development. Students gain exposure to potential careers, leadership roles, and key developments in Central Kentucky and Mercer County. Additionally, participants benefit from workshops focused on resume preparation and scholarship applications to support their higher education pursuits.