POWERGRAMS

EDUCATION "The first time you see these kids, they're kind of shy and don't have a lot of verbal skills, because they are normally conversing with one another through text messages," Harper said. But after a few months in the program, he observed "a tremendous change." "They come up to you, look you in the eye, ask how you're doing with a lot of 'yes sirs' and 'no sirs,'" Harper said. "They're being coached to dress for success. It's having a tremendous impact." Bennett said the program has the additional benefit of giving his Geneva High students a chance to explore vocational options. "Once kids get to their junior year, they start thinking, 'What avenues do I want to pursue?' These field trips they take to various industries and businesses stimulate their interest," Bennett said. He recalled one youth leadership student who expressed uncertainty in choosing a profession, then got hooked on a flight simulator during a trip to Fort Rucker. "He didn't want to leave," Bennett said. "He knew immediately that was something he might seriously want to pursue. So it's a great program all around." The Dale County Youth Leadership Program is online at dcylp.org. The Warren Beck Youth Leadership Program is at facebook.com/wbylp/. "It's truly an outstanding program." - Geneva High School Principal Mickey Bennett 28 Director of Development Cynthia Green points to section of the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center in Enterprise as she leads tour. Students watch worker on assembly line.

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