Empowerment, teamwork, and community service defined the experience for eleven local teens who recently completed the United Way's GoLEAD program from July 30 to August 1.
GoLEAD (Leadership Education and Development) is our flagship three-day youth leadership program. Specifically designed for high school students, this 21-hour program combines leadership training with practical service projects to foster real community impact.
We are proud to partner with the University of Georgia's J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development, facilitated by Jason Estep, Public Service Faculty. Each day, students explored their leadership styles, honed communication and conflict management skills, and engaged in team-building activities under the expert guidance of the Fanning Institute's facilitators. Hayley Poillucci, United Way Volunteer Center Manager and Youth United Staff Support, shared, “Each year becomes more rewarding as we witness light bulb moments when a student learns more about themselves, the community, or discover a new opportunity to better themselves or others. We are thankful for our volunteers, partnership with the J.W. Fanning Institute, and corporate partners that make it all happen!”
Reflecting on the experience, Layla Cardona, a GoLEAD participant, remarked, "Being a part of GoLEAD was amazing! I gained valuable friendships, leadership experience, community engagement, and I learned lessons that I will take with me to both school and my community. United Way is an amazing organization, and I can’t wait to continue working with them throughout my high school career!”
The GoLEAD program offers a level of leadership training typically reserved for corporate executives and government officials. Through interactive lectures, hands-on activities, and ongoing service project planning, participants are equipped to become influential leaders, skilled communicators, and engaged community members. Our staff members worked diligently to plan and ensure the success of our GoLEAD program.
Jessica Carnes, United Way Digital Engagement Coordinator and Youth United Staff Support, said, “I love seeing the youth of our community come together, eager to learn and grow as leaders. The first day we usually spend some time letting the students get to know each other better through engaging leadership activities, but by the end of the week we see new friendships and connections made!”
Students delved into team-building exercises on the first day and explored different leadership, communication, and conflict management styles. We are so lucky to have such incredible corporate and community partnerships. Day two featured a financial literacy session by BDL Advisors and visits to Shaw Industries, Mohawk Industries, and Engineered Floors, where students interacted with corporate leaders and learned about career opportunities in the industry.
We also enjoyed hosting the University of Georgia's Undergraduate Admissions team. Their insights into the college admissions process were invaluable. Ben Griffin a GoLEAD participant, noted, “My favorite part of the week was being able to learn about the different responsibilities that come with leadership as well as how to adequately handle them!! I also enjoyed finding out different ways to be financially prepared for the future!”
The final day saw students volunteering with the United Way Community Partner, Salvation Army. At Salvation Army, the students sorted clothes from local school donations, and they unfolded and flattened donated bags and papers from customers. United Way staff facilitated a personal branding workshop and helped the students create impactful resumes.
Congratulations to the 2024 GoLEAD graduates: Emely Aguiree, Layla Cardona, Alyssa Davis, Macy Duarte, Joseph Griffin, Isabel Harrison, Chloe Kelley, Kate Ridley, Layla Smith, Emilee Stansell, and Addison Williams!
Grants from the Community Foundation of Northwest Georgia and the Kiwanis Club of Dalton partly funded our GoLEAD program. The grants also support Youth United, United Way of Northwest Georgia’s signature youth leadership development program. We appreciate their support of our youth development programs!
Are you interested in getting involved? Contact Hayley Poillucci at 706-529-1591 or Jessica Carnes at 706-529-1583 to learn more about Youth United. Visit ourunitedway.org to discover how you can get involved, give back, and take action. Stay connected with us on social media! Search United Way of Northwest Georgia on Facebook or @UnitedWayNWGA on Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.
United, We Do More!
Amanda Burt is the President of United Way of Northwest Georgia.
The mission of United Way is Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.