Youth Leadership Blount serves high school sophomores who show leadership abilities but who may not have the opportunity to reach that potential. The program challenges and sustains youth in developing:

• The ability to provide effective and ethical leadership for Blount County,
• An increased awareness of and appreciation for Blount County and its people,
• The ability and desire to serve the needs of the community both now and in the future,
• A strong bond with a diverse network of peers from throughout Blount County.

Each year eighteen students are selected to participate in the program which includes a beginning retreat, two day legislative retreat to Nashville and nine daylong sessions that expose participants to a variety of issues and topics that will enhance their understanding of Blount County while developing the skills they will need for life-long leadership service.

Participation in additional optional activities is encouraged and includes attending the annual MACCO Christmas concert and participating in the Martin Luther King Day Celebration. These topics teach the youth about their history and government, concepts of building community and citizenship, increase their appreciation for cultural diversity and develop essential leadership skills.

Additionally, Peer Mediation has been introduced to the curriculum and will be utilized in each of the area high schools as the youth assist their peers in non-violent resolution of conflict.

Following graduation, students identify needs in the community and develop projects and personal goals to be pursued during their junior and senior years. Faculty facilitators follow-up with students as they work toward achieving their goals. Several alumni of the program serve on the Youth Leadership Blount Advisory Committee each year.

Nominations for the program are accepted in January. Teachers, guidance counselors, neighbors, clergy, alumni or other non-family members can nominate students for the program. Candidates for selection must be currently enrolled as a high school freshman and have at least a 2.0 grade point average. Individuals should also have a sincere interest in serving the community and demonstrate the potential for leadership.

Leadership Blount County provides an overnight Legislative Retreat to Nashville. The annual event provides the youth with the opportunity to meet with key leaders on the state level, to witness their government in operation and to observe the skills of leadership and responsibilities of citizenship first-hand.

Youth Leadership Blount is provided to students at no charge. The program is funded by sponsorships from businesses and civic organizations.