Teen Programs
Teen Programs at the CRA
Teen leadership programs focus on developing essential skills for personal and professional growth. Participants enhance teamwork and collaboration by working with peers to solve problems and share ideas. They practice decision-making and learn the importance of accountability, taking responsibility for their choices and actions. Time management and organization are emphasized, teaching teens how to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines effectively. These experiences help build confidence and self-esteem, empowering teens to believe in their abilities and face challenges with a positive mindset. Overall, these programs cultivate well-rounded, responsible leaders ready for future opportunities.
Leadership Clubs
The CRA Leaders Club program provides an excellent opportunity for teens to develop leadership skills while making a positive impact in their community.
CRA Junior Leaders: Grades 6-8
Junior Leaders develop leadership skills while making a positive impact in their community. By assisting with community events like road races, holiday celebrations, food drives, and coat drives, participants gain experience in teamwork and collaboration. They also help coach youth teams, support after-school programs, and organize fun activities that promote decision-making and accountability. The program hosts events such as Christmas caroling, a Christmas party, being elves at the CRA Winter Wonderland, and fundraisers like car washes and raffles, building confidence and self-esteem in its members. The year concludes with a special trip, celebrating their hard work and contributions.
Rotary Interact: Grades 9-12
This teen leadership program, run in collaboration with Dalton Rotary, offers high school students the opportunity to develop valuable skills while actively supporting CRA programs. Participants help with food drives, the annual coat and hat drive, and Halloween events. They also create thoughtful cards for home-bound individuals and provide tutoring support. Through these activities, students build teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. This program helps students enhance their leadership, organizational, and time management skills while fostering a deep commitment to giving back to their community.
Youth Advisory Board: Grades 9 -12
The Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is composed of students nominated by their teachers who help the CRA develop new programs for the community. This group not only plays a vital role in shaping future initiatives but also gains lifetime skills such as project management, organizational skills, and a strong sense of community service.
As they collaborate on various projects, students learn how to plan, execute, and evaluate programs that make a difference. Through these experiences, they also develop leadership and teamwork skills, while fostering a deep understanding of the importance of giving back to the community.
Friendship Friday’s
This FREE bi-monthly night out is designed to bring together typical and non-typical teens and young adults in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
This event fosters connections, encourages creativity, and promotes understanding among diverse individuals, allowing everyone to express themselves and building lasting friendships.
FAQ
The CRA does not require a membership for youth to participate in our leadership or Friendship Fridays programs.
The Junior Leaders meet once a month during the school year and will volunteer at several events throughout the school year. They will earn points towards participation in a celebratory year-end event.
Rotary Interact (aka Senior Leaders) meets once a month during the school year and will participate in several volunteer events throughout the school year. They will earn points towards participation in a celebratory year-end event.
Youth Advisory Board requires a larger commitment as the whole committee meets once a month and the steering committee of seniors meets twice a month during the school year. Because members are selected in 9th grade, it is expected they will participate through their senior year. Additionally, there will be a few events that the members will volunteer at during the school year.
All of our leadership programs run through the school year. But our Friendship Fridays is offered only once a month through the summer.
