Courage Academy for Youth
Leadership
by Pat Goodwin
Courage Center has
selected nine youth ages 14 to 16 for its new “Courage
Academy for Youth Leadership” which is designed to develop
the next generation of leaders in the disability community. The program,
established with a $50,000 grant from the Allianz Foundation for
North America, is for young people with disabilities who have the
skills, qualities and attitudes that will ultimately impact their
local and global community.
The year-long program begins with a week at Camp Courage in Maple
Lake, MN, in July, followed by weekend retreats at Camp Courage
in October, January and April. Participants were selected for their
leadership, teamwork and problem solving skills and for their involvement
in community service and advocacy.
“The changes in accessibility that have occurred over the years
in the disability community have been largely brought about by people
with disabilities,” said Sharon Van Winkle, program director
for Courage Center’s Sports and Recreation Program. “There
are still changes that need to be made. We decided to create the
academy to help participants become more aware of their strengths
and interests and to guide them as they develop leadership and employability
skills. It is our goal that the abilities these young people gain
will result in increased self-confidence and greater independence
and prepares them for college and a lifetime of community leadership
as well.”
Those selected for the inaugural year of the Courage Academy are
entering the 9th or 10th grade:
• Rebecca Cook, Lakeville
• Nick Jones, Lakeville
• Matthew Ellenberger, Edina
• Rusty Hagan, Stewartville
• Beth Standaert, Coon Rapids
• Leo O’Brien, St. Paul
• Monica Rudnik, Grafton, N.D.
• Jeustine Breidenbach, Casselton, N.D.
• Kelsey Schmaltz, Fargo, N.D.
A staff of educators who specialize in youth development and leadership,
as well as mentors with disabilities, will assist participants
in applying their learning to community service or advocacy projects.
Motivational speakers and hands-on learning experiences, along
with recreational activities at Camp Courage, are also part of
the program.
The youth for the 2005-06 session were selected through an application
and interview process that also included references from teachers,
parents/guardians, coaches, job supervisors, and others. For more
information, visit www.courage.org.
