• By supporting and engaging young leaders, adults, organizations and communities experience direct benefits, through stronger connections to other young people in the community (Zeldin, McDaniel, Topitzes, & Lorens, 2001). • They have a greater understanding of the problems facing other youth, and fresh perspectives for how to address these problems (Des Marais, Yang, & Farzanehkia, 2000; Zeldin, McDaniel, Topitzes, & Lorens, 2001; McGillicuddy, 1991).

• Helping young people develop leadership competencies makes them better able to solve community problems and enhances their civic participation (O'Brien & Kohlmeier, 2003). • Young leaders also demonstrate higher career aspirations, increased self-esteem, and improved high school completion rates (Bloomberg, Ganey, Alba, Quintero, & Alcantara, 2003).

The development of leadership contributes greatly to the positive development of young people and their communities. • Leadership skills, such as goal-setting, problem-solving and sound decision-making, are not just necessary for leaders - these skills are needed for success in today's world (MacNeil 2000).

Youth need opportunities to both learn about and practice leadership, in meaningful and authentic ways.

5. Project Management-setting goals/developing action steps, meeting facilitation, reflection, distinguishing between one's interests and community needs

3. Personal Identity - understanding the relationship between oneself and the community, pride in being a member of a larger group, awareness of areas for self-improvement, taking responsibility for one's actions and the resulting consequences 4. Professionalism-demonstrating tactfulness, understanding protocols, appropriate dress and action given appraisal of context, delivering quality work, positively presenting oneself to others.

1. Communication- public speaking/writing, and engaging the participation of others 2. Teamwork- respecting others, performing roles of both leader and follower, building on strengths, and commitment to free group input and expression

What is Leadership? Five areas of competency that distinguish leaders and shape youth leadership development efforts:

Conditions that promote healthy youth development are supported through programs and activities in schools and communities. Youth development researchers and practitioners emphasize that effective programs and interventions recognize youths’ strengths and seek to promote positive development rather than addressing risks in isolation. Youth who are constructively involved in learning and doing and who are connected to positive adults and peers are less likely to engage in risky or self-defeating

(a) the ability to analyze his or her own strengths and weaknesses, set personal and vocational goals, and have the self-esteem, confidence, motivation, and abilities to carry them out (including the ability to establish support networks in order to fully participate in community life and effect positive social change); and (b) the ability to guide or direct others on a course of action, influence the opinions and behaviors of others, and serve as a role model (Wehmeyer, Agran, & Hughes, 1998).