Red Cross Youth Leadership Conference a Success

On January 24 and 25, 2009, the American Red Cross Southwest Washington Youth Council hosted its second annual Leadership Development Conference (LDC) for youth ages 13 to 18, with the theme, “Youth can change the world!” The event was held at the Northwest Regional Training Center in Vancouver, Washington.

Over the course of the weekend, nearly 50 participants from 15 different schools were trained in First Aid and CPR and learned leadership skills through hands-on teambuilding activities and interactive workshops. These workshops ranged from communication and listening skills to public speaking and stress management. They also learned about the services of the Red Cross and how to get more involved in the communit.

The conference was entirely organized and run by youth. Members of the Youth Council solicited donations, planned the curriculum, presented the leadership workshops, and even taught First Aid and CPR.

The Youth Council’s efforts certainly paid off. Participants enjoyed the conference, and look forward to coming back next year. One participant said, “Before I attended LDC, I did not know very much about the Red Cross and how much it is involved in the community. I have learned so much about communication, leadership, CPR, and overall volunteering. Thanks so much!” Another added, “Not only do you get valuable leadership skills but you also get to make new friends and have fun.

Indeed, youth can change the world.

The Leadership Development Conference could not have taken place without the support of its generous sponsors:

The host of the event, the American Red Cross Southwest Washington Youth Council, began in Clark County in 2002, and currently includes 27 students representing eleven high schools in six school districts. These young people are taking a leadership role in their community through youth-led Red Cross service projects that exemplify the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross here in Southwest Washington.

Lacey Matzdorff, a senior at La Center High School, practices CPR.

Iulica Kinonen, a junior at Ridgefield High School, shows off his LDC T-shirt.

LDC participants work together to lift each other.