Prince Edward 4-H is now accepting applications for the 4-H InnoVAtive Leadership Academy. The ILA is a program designed to help high school age youth develop skills in leadership, communication, teamwork and problem solving. 

In addition to several “classroom” sessions or workshops, participants will also attend local board of supervisors, town council, and/or school board meetings to gain a better understanding of the decision-making processes that affect us all as citizens. Teens will work together to select a local issue that is relevant to them and develop a plan to address it in a positive way. Teams will have the opportunity to present their proposals in a public forum.

The first class of the InnoVAtive Leadership Academy will be limited to 12 participants.  It will be open to all teens in grades 9-12.  A light dinner will be provided during the classroom sessions. Each participant will also receive a copy of Virginia Cooperative Extension’s publication entitled “InnoVAtive Leadership:  Building Community Connections” and an embroidered polo shirt to wear to public meetings.

Based on a proposal submitted to the Virginia 4-H Foundation, Prince Edward County 4-H was awarded funding that will enable 12 local teens to participate at no cost.

For more information or to request an application packet, contact the Prince Edward County Extension Office at 392-4246 or email jebowen1@vt.edu.

Interested teens should complete and submit an application to the Prince Edward Extension Office by Jan. 8. Review of the applications will be completed and applicants will be notified of their status by Jan. 15.