Feb 16, 2015 2 min read

Leadership Washington County is doing its best to prepare the county’s youth for future responsibilities.

That is why the organization is holding a one-day workshop March 25 at California University of Pennsylvania’s Southpointe campus that will provide leadership and creative thinking training to high school students.

The workshop is split into two sessions; one for ninth- and 10th-graders and another for 11th-grade students. Enrollment is open to all Washington County schools.

Leadership board President Jeff Fondelier said the workshop provides students with opportunities they might not otherwise experience.

“This program is offering something that is not offered in the schools and is vitally important as young people transition into adulthood. Leadership isn’t necessary taught in a school curriculum,” he said.

Leadership Washington County is a nonprofit organization formed in 1998 as a cooperative effort between the United Way of Washington County and the Washington County Chamber of Commerce.

The workshop, in its second year, will include inspirational speakers and skill-building exercises.

The workshop sessions for ninth- and 10th-graders will focus on communication skills, team building and voulnteerism.

Sessions for 11th-graders will focus on creative thinking and problem solving. Real-life challenges will be presented by local businesses, including Range Resources and the Washington Wild Things.

So far, six school districts within the county committed to the program.

For more information or to enroll, contact Melissa Marion at 724-258-1855.