LEAD > TEENS

The aspect of LEAD that I appreciate the most is being able to walk into a room full of peers and being accepted for your self no matter what.

LEAD taught me how to be compassionate showed me how to direct my energy in a positive way and has encouraged me to raise my grades.

My life assignment is to become a peaceful police officer so that I can benefit the community and make the world a more just place.

At LEAD as a teen you can say something with merit and be listened to sincerely.

Im not as bored anymore and I am a much better leader. My self confidence has gotten a lot better.

Jake, a 6 year participant who has earned a scholarship for a one month Alaska sea-kayaking course with the National Outdoor Leadership School in the summer of 2006.

How to think and act in the best interest of myself and to be mindful of my surroundings.

LEAD provides life time knowledge, and extremely rare opportunities that any normal person would only dream of.

Terra, a 2006 LEAD Graduate, LEAD Intern, Volunteer, and Nuestro Lugar / Our Place Teen Center Co-Coordinator

What is your favorite thing about LEAD/why do you like LEAD?

The people, definitely. They have difference experiences, hobbies, and are so open to sharing with people and listening. It's pretty much amazing, the relationships I've gained with everyone. So get this, I was out at the Churchill rock during this senior announcement, and I realize that I know maybe about four or five of the people standing around. They all have friends to talk to, and I'm feeling a tad left out. Then who comes and stands next to me? Maya, a rockin' LEAD teen, of course. I'll run into a teen at the bus station, and it'll totally make my day.

What was life like for you before you joined LEAD?

Life was crappy to say the least. Coming from Portland, I didn't care about school or my family. I didn't take care of myself either. I was apathetic and drunk, stealing and fighting with my family. It was a sketch time, yes.

How have you changed since being in LEAD?

My optimism has returned, which is wonderful! I've seemed to have developed this.. inner self-esteem, and have become more aware of people's feelings. It's so hard to explain. People have told me they've seen a good change, but it could be totally different from how I feel. So from my point of view, it's all on how I now perviece the world, how I communicate with people, and how I treat myself. My mental lethargy is gone and I can BREATHE! Does any of this make sense? Sorry, I'm rambling, my brain power has been used already, thanks to the Laureate.

What is your Life Assignment?

To become a journalist and to use my awesome writing powers to challenge any form of oppression, day and night, around the clock. Perhaps while wearing a cape. But seriously here. Writing is my passion. Nothing brings greater happiness (maybe except for yakisoba). I wish to use my passion and turn it into something I can share with the world. No matter how people to react to what I have printed, pleased or frustrated, as long as they THINK about it, then my job is done.

What is one thing that you want people to know about LEAD?

A-MA-ZING! Always a guaranteed place to smile, laugh, cry, and get hugs. Lots of hugs.