Faulkner County Youth Leadership Institute graduates announced

The Faulkner County Youth Leadership Institute will graduate its 2008-2009 class at 2 p.m. Sunday April 19, 2009, in the Burgess Auditorium at Central Baptist College.

More than 390 people have graduated from the leadership program, which is entering its 15th year.

"The youth leadership program is a great opportunity for up and coming young people to learn more about Faulkner County, job opportunities and ways to give back. This program enables the students to not only exercise their leadership ability but also learn what Faulkner County has to offer and how their skills can contribute to building a better community," said Youth Institute Director Aimee Prince.

Graduation will mark completion of the 14th year for the program. The institute includes monthly leadership sessions that cover a variety of social, economic and political topics; an overnight retreat and participation in a community service project. This year's class selected Bethlehem House as their project. The class held FCYLI's Second Annual Dodge Ball tournament to raise money to furnish storage buildings that are needed to store food and clothing at the house and through a partnership with Nabholz Construction Apprenticeship Carpentry Program the task is near completion.

"We are so excited about the new storage facilities! With 15 residents and staff operating in a 5 bedroom house, we have absolutely no storage room. The new storage buildings will allow us the possibility of purchasing more bulk food, becoming a Feed The Children partner and better serving the homeless and hungry in our community," said Judi Lively Executive Director at Bethlehem House.

Members of the 2008-2009 class:

Conway Christian: Taylor Guinn

Conway High School: Angel Burrow, Nathan Falls, Trevor Ferguson, Hope Washispack, Travis Alexander, Kelsey Blasingame, Josh Blaylock, Alex Dayer, Udai Garimella, Katherine Goode, Emily Hoover, Taylor Lamb, Hannah Lichtenwalter, Nichole McPhate, Brad Martins, Ashley Morris, Todd Richard, Kerrie Snyder, Madi Throneberry, Matt Woods

Guy-Perkins: Christian Ward

Greenbrier: Alex Jackson

Mayflower: Jackie Brown

St. Joseph: James Luyet, Jessie Moix

The youth leadership program is a cooperative effort between the Faulkner County Leadership Institute and its alumni association, the Boys and Girls Club of Faulkner County and school districts throughout the community. Adults who have graduated from the Faulkner County Leadership Institute lead the youth program. We would not be able to have such a successful program if it were not for our wonderful speakers and sponsors. Thank you all. For more information about this program contact the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce at 327-7788.