Members of the 2014-15 Youth Leadership program of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce recently presented a check to Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland. Fundraising efforts for this leadership service project at Bradley Central, Cleveland and Walker Valley High Schools and Tennessee Christian Preparatory School netted almost $2,200 for local building projects. From left are Reed Calfee, Cleveland High School; Andy Chase, Tennessee Christian Preparatory School; Josiah Vacheresse, Habitat for Humanity; Shelby Kersey; Bradley Central High School; and Amber Bell, Walker Valley High School.
The 2014-15 Youth Leadership class has raised almost $2,200 for Cleveland’s Habitat for Humanity construction fund this year as part of their annual service project. The 26 juniors and seniors from Bradley Central, Cleveland and Walker Valley High Schools and Tennessee Christian Preparatory School also volunteered “sweat equity” by helping with construction at Habitat homes and by working in Habitat’s ReStore.
Youth Leadership is a workforce development program of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce designed to prepare young people for leadership in Cleveland and Bradley County.
“I am encouraged to see such dynamic leadership from the youth in this community,” said Josiah Vacheresse, development manager for Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland. “The initiative these students took in conducting a tremendously effective fundraising effort is truly inspiring. The impact of the Youth Leadership program will be felt immediately by deserving Habitat partner families in Cleveland.”
Sherry Crye, director of workforce development for the Chamber, explained, “Students from each school choose a captain and work as a team in this fundraising effort. They must come up with a plan to raise the funds and involve the entire class. This is another way students can exercise their leadership skills.”
Fundraising projects this year included a dunk tank for teachers, casual dress day and a teacher superlative show.
“We are proud of our students’ efforts and their willingness to give back to our community,” Ms. Crye added.