Extension Introduces Points of Light Institute in Decatur

February 01, 2008

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System's Urban Center in Morgan County introduced a new program to area youth called the Points of Light Youth Leadership Institute (PYLI). The PYLI is a state-of-the-art training program designed to teach leadership and community service skills to high school students. The students complete a series of 17 modules and 13 experimental exercises on problem solving and goal setting that will allow them to think outside the box. The program culminates in a community service project created and implemented by the youth. In addition, a graduation ceremony is held to reward students on a job well done.

To implement the program, students are sought who desire to become a leader and to make a difference in their community. Applications are distributed to local schools and after-school programs, and the program is promoted through local media. Each student is required to write an essay stating why they want to attend PYLI. Upon completing the interview process, they immediately begin learning about volunteerism and community service. How can you make a difference in your community? was only one of the questions posed to the students.

The program is unique because students are allowed to determine when to meet, how to assess community issues and what community service project to implement. After completing the 12-week course, the Morgan County PYLI participants put their knowledge and skills to good use by assisting the Third Street Boys and Girls Club library in Decatur.

The students, who are also former members of the Boys and Girls Club, decided to clean, paint, reorganize and add more lighting to the library. They made several visits to local vendors and organizations to request donations of paint, cleaning supplies and other materials needed for the project.

As a result of this endeavor, the Third Street Boys and Girls Club library has a brand new look and a well organized infrastructure. The students gained a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

Plans are now underway to offer another Points of Light Youth Leadership Institute in partnership with The Volunteer Center of Morgan County and The Decatur Youth Services later this year.

For more information about the Morgan County PYLI, contact urban regional Extension agents Marcus Garner or Kenneth Gamble at (256) 773-2549.

For more news from Morgan County, visit: http://www.aces.edu/Morgan

Posted by dreynold on February 1, 2008 04:42 PM
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