Success Stories
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Emily's Story
I am a part of Youth as Resources, a decision making board that allocates dollars to youth-led, youth-initiated projects that benefit the community.
Three years ago, I was contacted by the volunteer coordinator at my school and she informed me about YAR and told me that the YAR Coordinator was looking for a student to join the board from our school. I told her I was interested and later that week I met with the YAR Coordinator. We talked about the board, how it functioned and we decided I would be a good part of an excellent team.
Being a part of YAR greatly improved my leadership and communication skills as well as familiarized me with my community. Because of YAR, I have been able to find my leadership style and take charge! I have been comfortable leading a project or a discussion and I am always willing to step up to help a good cause. I am more likely to speak my mind and fight for something I believe in. I have learned the only way to make a difference is to take positive action and get involved. YAR has exposed me to different people with different families, beliefs and religions. We have learned together that constructive criticism is okay and that a blending of all our thoughts seems to always be the best.
I have been so amazed at the tremendous job our board does. At every meeting, teamwork goes into every question, thought and decision. We all take what we do seriously and that is why we are so successful. I had no idea, before becoming a part of the board, that a group with only twelve people could make such a big difference in the community. We have battled bias, age barriers and ignorance. I know I have grown through this experience and I think all of us will leave with leadership skills and a desire to see change within our world.