The Power of a Vision!  In 2009, we at the Sequor Youth Development Initiative had an incredible vision for Youth Development in the state of Texas. That vision meant that we had to take risks, think long term about the needs of the state, anticipate a successful outcome for our goals. Well, the 2011-2012 year has been filled with happiness, strength, and success. In April we held our annual conference and there were over 100 attendees and 27 workshops that took place over 2 days in Austin, Texas. Again, this year the conference reached more organizations and had participants from as far as Canada!  The keynote speaker, Dr. Chris Boleman, State Program Director for 4-H and Youth Development, helped us to understand the extent to which positive thinking and leadership can combine into the right elements to promote change in an individual and an organization. For those who were unable to attend, let me share one of the central themes that came out of his remarks: "Inspired leaders must communicate from the inside out. If change is needed, the leader doesn't force people to embrace it, an inspired leader becomes the change they want to see in others!". The vision he presented prepared the conference attendees for the upcoming workshop presenters that were able to deliver their own message to an eager crowd.

During the past year the implementation of Sequor YDIs vision meant conducting workshops for more than 100 individuals across the state by partnering with Fort Bend ISD, Houston Parks and Recreation, and the Texas Partnership for Out-of-School Time, among others.  We also produced groundbreaking webinars on positive youth development, bullying, character development in youth sports, youth diversity and more. We have broken new barriers by partnering again with local, state and national organizations (i.e., City of Houston, TX Partnership for Out-of-school Time, and Public Lands Service Coalition) and received approximately $200,000 in grants to conduct evaluation and research studies focusing on program impacts, youth and the outdoors and youth program curriculum.

We have come a long way since 2009! In three years we have set the foundation for us to be the change we want to see throughout the state of Texas. On behalf of the Executive Committee, I would like to thank each of you for your continued support! Your acceptance of our purpose and vision made all of this possible. We look forward to continuing our work together as the Sequor YDI moves forward in its unwavering commitment to our vision to nurture, educate and develop today's youth practitioner!

Enjoy the beautiful summer!

Dr. Corliss Outley