Quarterly News and Updates | |
The African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC) aims to maintain a strong connection with you! Enjoy interesting facts, educational information, highlights and upcoming events. Have a question or comment? Please contact us at info@aaylc-co.org. | | |
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Embracing volunteerism provides opportunities to give back and strengthen community bonds while addressing local needs. This dual impact not only positively transforms the community but also contributes to enhanced mental and physical well-being for personal growth and fulfillment. | |
Executive Director Insights | |
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It’s a new year filled with endless possibilities, from hopes and dreams to goals and resolutions; this is your time to make 2024 your year to elevate your volunteer footprint! I encourage you to turn thoughts into action, especially when making a difference in our community. Community activism is a resolution so many make, and most don’t know where to begin. Odds are, if you are reading this newsletter, it is apparent that you have a passion and desire to be the change you want to see. If you are seeking an opportunity to make a heartfelt impact and get more involved, consider elevating your volunteer footprint or encouraging your friends and loved ones to support the extraordinary work happening at the African American Youth Leadership Conference.
There is no perfect recipe for community service, and it has much to do with the affective commitment, prioritization, capacity, and financial ability of those looking to give back. Think about ways you have contributed in the past and take inventory of how you can elevate your volunteer footprint in 2024. If you have made a monetary donation in the past, try leveling up and designating your time to serve on a committee or as a volunteer on the day of the conference. If you have only volunteered your time, consider raising money and submitting a financial contribution supporting conference costs.
Let 2024 be the year we all elevate our volunteer footprint and increase our activism to support our young people. May we stay the course, remain committed, and vow to be stewards of change so we can leave our community in a better place than when we found it.
Sincerely,
Dr. Ersaleen Hope
Executive Director
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Celebrating Excellence - Student of the Month | | |
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January 2024 - Briona Robinson
“I’ve always thought that trying new things is its own sport.” states this Fountain Valley School of Colorado Junior. Holding a 3.96 GPA, Briona has never felt the need to be one specific person. She has always wanted to be a doctor and understands the importance of seeing women and people of color in S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.) She has been in numerous STEM camps and loves that doctors can help to save lives. However, Briona is a plethora of talents outside of the sciences! She started modeling in commercials and photo shots at just the age of 10- including runway. Just this past summer, she competed in her first pageant and won Miss Teen Colorado Springs. She went on to compete in Teen Miss Rocky Mountain and won that regional title as well! She will soon head to Orlando to compete for the National title.
Learn more about this exceptional student
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December 2023 - Olivia Agbo
Olivia Agbo, a vibrant junior at Cheyenne Mountain High School, shines not only academically with a GPA of 3.75, but is also a compassionate force for change within her community. Olivia dreams of becoming a pediatrician. Her post-high school plans include heading to college, majoring in biology and commencing her pre-med track. Her love for understanding the complexities of the human mind is evident in her favorite school subject, psychology, where she delves into the intricacies of human functions.
Learn more about this exceptional student
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November 2023 - Jordan Pruitt
Jordan Pruitt is a remarkable 7th-grade student from Discovery Canyon Campus Middle School, whose passion for academics, compassion for others, and love for animals define his character. Gifted in mathematics, Jordan excels two grade levels ahead, maintaining an impressive 4.0 GPA for the past three years. His teachers and principals commend his joyful presence in their classrooms, emphasizing his kindness and empathy towards his peers. Jordan is not just an academic achiever; he actively participates in extracurricular activities and community service. He dedicates his time to volunteering as a Peer Leader in the Sources of Strength student program, contributing to suicide prevention efforts within his school community. In addition, Jordan is an active member of the Boy Scouts of America and the Greater Pikes Peak Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., where he selflessly devotes his time to various volunteer initiatives, showcasing his innate leadership qualities and commitment to helping others.
Learn more about this exceptional student
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31st Annual AAYLC - March 9, 2024 | |
Exploring Matters of the Mind | |
New Year, New Opportunities
By Alice Miles, MSW/Social Work Candidate, Counselor at Mt. Carmel Veteran Service Center & AAYLC Board Director
The calendar has turned over, bringing with it a desire to establish new routines and possibilities to better ourselves. Sometimes this stems from our own drive for change, and sometimes it is inspired by those around us, such as friends, family, or peers. Regardless of the source, the beginning of the year is a great time to look for new opportunities to explore interests, develop skills, and be present for new experiences. Read More
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Community Collaboration: Filling in the Gaps...Post Secondary Seminar
The African American Youth Leadership Conference (AAYLC), in collaboration with Education Children of Color (ECOC), Peak Education, and the Sachs Foundation's Elevated Program, hosted a transformative seminar on October 28, 2023. Featuring keynote speaker Carlos Gonzalez Jr., Board President at Widefield School District 3, the event provided diverse workshops covering CTE pathways, college planning, military career options, and specialized sessions for 9th-12th graders on financial aid, scholarship writing, and application processes. The collaborative efforts showcased the power of partnerships in empowering youth. Thank you to all participants, presenters, sponsors, and the planning committee for contributing to this impactful educational endeavor. Looking forward to future initiatives that continue to uplift and inspire our community.
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Seeking Sponsors for a Bright Future | | |
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The AAYLC welcomes sponsorships from organizations, businesses, and individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of our youth. The AAYLC would not be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, for whom we are eternally grateful.
If you want to make a difference by sponsoring the AAYLC, please express your interest by clicking the button below. We are excited to work with you!
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