Every year, Club teens participate in Youth of the Year, our signature leadership program. But we believe that it’s never too early to start learning to be a leader.
This year, with the support of the Red String Foundation, we expanded the program to provide curriculum to middle schoolers. The Jr. Youth of the Year program was inaugurated in memory of Margaret “Dodie” Bushee, a local educator whose forty-year career underscored her commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering curiosity. Through it, middle school members are getting a jump start building the leadership skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
Most importantly, they’re defining the kind of leaders they want to be.
This year’s winner, Ellie P., sees herself as an empathetic leader and creative problem solver.
“My guiding principles are having a big heart, excitement, and challenge. I would say that what I care most about is leaving my mark on the world and helping people,” she said.
The sixth grader loves volleyball, piano, tennis, and art. She added, “Something I really love about the Club is the concept of how you can sign up for any class you want for that day. It lets kids like me explore different things and subjects after school!”
Each member had their own definition of leadership. Colbie, for example, shared that she believes “leadership is about service and making those around you feel valued and supported.”
Club member Aiden added, “I’ve learned how important teamwork is. I’ve seen that good teamwork can make everything easier and more fun. I’ve also learned how to connect with different people, which helps me be a better friend and teammate.”
Through this program, kids:
- Learn how to lead themselves by defining their priorities and setting specific, actionable plans to reach their goals.
- Are equipped to lead others through activities that encourage them to communicate effectively and understand where others are coming from.
- Are encouraged to collaborate to create a positive impact in the community.
Along the way, they learn to embrace the diverse characteristics we all bring to leadership, advocate for themselves, and compromise.
This program has a transformative impact on kids, how they see themselves, and the agency they feel over their futures. We’re honored to provide it to kids in Dodie’s name and grateful to the Red String Foundation for foundational financial support of the program.
Dodie was a lifelong educator who poured her heart and soul into every child she taught. Her classrooms, whether at Carlthorp School or Palisades Preschool, were filled with laughter, discovery, and a warmth that connected students and families to her long after they had left her care. Her legacy lives on in countless kids across the community.
