Youth leadership program gains momentum

SANDPOINT — Launched in the fall 2009 by Alana Hatcher, vice president of the chamber’s 2008-2010 Leadership Sandpoint class, Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce officials are proud of Future Leaders of America Today’s direction

 A student-centric program, FLOAT provides professional insights to high school students who planning what to do after graduation.

“One of the most important undertakings we, as business professionals, can provide to students is to give them exposure and critical skills that will help them excel in the real world which complements educational pursuits,” Hatcher said.

Thirty high school students from Sandpoint, Clark Fork and Lake Pend Oreille are involved with this year’s program, meeting regularly to learn about entrepreneurial skills, job search skills, resume building and interviewing techniques, career exposure, customer service, team building, communication techniques, and personal budgeting.  The students benefited from hands-on learning provided through field trips to the Bird Aviation Museum & Invention Center, Coldwater Creek, and Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

Comments coming from students include: “Sparked my mind to what my lifelong job will be and why.” “What we are learning today will drive our careers tomorrow.” “It has done a lot for me, has shown me so much and has given me so much for my future.”

The momentum builds with each session, chamber officials said.

The students are particularly grateful to Coldwater Creek, Horizon Credit Union, Taylor Parker Motors, Bonner General Hospital, AmericanWest Bank and Linda Robey for their contribution to the program.  Their generosity has provided them with the ability to participate without the need to financially contribute on their own.

Students have started to incorporate FLOAT and related activities on their resumes and applications. Upon completion of the program, students will be provided with a certificate acknowledging the new skills they have learned to apply to future endeavors.

Information: Alana Hatcher, (208) 255-7851