Summit to provide teens with tools to become leaders

Looking to develop their leadership skills through volunteerism, hundreds of Orange County teens from varied socio-economic and cultural backgrounds will gather this March at the annual Take the Lead summit, the largest conference on service and leadership in Southern California. Set for Friday, March 12, the summit is being presented by Festival of Children Foundation of Costa Mesa and Volunteer Center Orange County.

From 7:45am to 1:30pm youth grades nine through twelve will convene at California State University, Fullerton (800 State College Blvd., Fullerton). Uniting more than 400 teens, educators, and community partners, Take the Lead will feature inspirational words from keynote speaker and Life Rolls On founder Jesse Billauer, the motivational percussion group called The Crew, and over 20 workshops focusing on service, leadership, and civic involvement.

Key note speaker Jesse Billauer was diagnosed a quadriplegic as a result of a surfing accident. Billauer adapted his equipment and technique and is now a role model to many as a professional surfer. Billauer is honored to speak at the summit stating, “I believe that it is events like this that will help the youth of today become more aware of the true value in becoming not only a leader, but becoming a role model to those around them.”

In addition to attending workshops, students will also participate in two service projects. Led by Todd Francis, an artist and designer for Element Skateboards, students will take part in a card making project for Operation Homefront to benefit military families. Students are also encouraged to bring canned food to benefit the Community Action Partnership of Orange County Food Bank.

Take the Lead has been endorsed by Governor Schwarzenegger, California State Superintendent of Education Jack O’Connell & Orange County Superintendent William Habermehl.

Admission to Take the Lead 2010 is $20 per student with early registration. Beginning March 1, 2010 admission increases to $25 per student. There is no charge for accompanying teachers to attend. Registration is currently open and payment can be made online at www.takethelead.org. Payment can also be made onsite with registration and advance proof of purchase order.

A limited number of scholarships are available for students to attend Take the Lead. Contact Tanya Stephens for information on financial assistance by calling (714) 438-3200 or Bette Weinberg at (714) 953-5757 ext 135.

Take the Lead would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, State Farm Insurance, CarMax, and the Baden Family.