The Town of Okotoks is aiming to assist community youth with leadership skills as they move into the future.

Carey Gruber, Youth Social Development Specialist with the town, says this program offers many benefits to participants, with no cost attached.

"The cool thing about L.E.A.D. is that it's free. They come to the Youth Centre for the modules, they do lots of group work, so friendships are made and skills are developed, and then they have to put 20 hours into a practicum, which also counts towards their volunteer hours for high school," she said.

The program consists of nine learning modules, as well as a practicum placement in recreation, community events, and nature.

Gruber adds this unique program offers life skills to youth for their future endeavours.

"We go through a number of different modules on topics like leadership, personal wellness, communication, team work, conflict management. so, all the really important skills that youth need to learn, or practice as they're looking ahead to university and careers," she said.

Gruber says this fall's program is the second time the program has been offered to Okotoks youth, and has a great success rate with both parents and participants.

A new component titled, "Nature Lead," will be added to the 2019 spring program, with emphasis on environment and sustainability initiatives.

The L.E.A.D. program curriculum was originally developed in Calgary, and Gruber says town staff took the training to offer it in Okotoks, as it has important impacts on the future of youth.

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