By Tara Thompson, Red Cross Communications Volunteer

The Red Cross Leadership Development Camp for Utah teens is a transformative experience designed to mold the next generation of leaders through a comprehensive and inclusive approach. Scheduled for June 24th-28th, 2024, at Camp Pinecliff, the camp invites residents of Utah & SW Wyoming currently in 9th, 10th, or 11th grade to participate in a journey of self-discovery and leadership development.

Core Components and Success Stories
Heather Mckinnon is the LDC Director, and is in her 11th year volunteering with the camp. She outlines the camp's core components as leadership education focused on diversity, empathy, communication, teamwork, emotional intelligence, networking, managing change, and fostering a growth mindset. The camp boasts numerous success stories, with many staff members being former delegates. These narratives, consistently described as "life-changing" in evaluations, underscore the camp's profound impact.

Role and Impact on Youth Leadership
Having shifted from an employee to a volunteer role over eight years, Heather's dedication to the camp stems from witnessing the significant difference it makes in the lives of youth and the broader community. The potential seen in participants each year is a testament to the camp's effectiveness in realizing youth leadership potential.

Challenges and Curriculum Development
The camp's success in creating a diverse and inclusive environment is highlighted, with proactive measures ensuring respect and inclusion. The curriculum, continually updated to address current issues, includes input from student staff, ensuring relevance and engagement.

Personal Experiences and Advice
LDC Delegate, Lynette Shin emphasized the importance of building friendships and self-discovery within the camp's framework. She reflected on the transformative experiences, highlighting the inclusivity, diversity, and team-building activities that have left a lasting impression, saying, “LDC is highly committed to providing inclusivity and diversity in all aspects of their programs. They take great care to ensure that all the questions and activities presented can be applied to everyone regardless of their race, religion, or gender.”

Another Delegate, Angel Perez, shared a similar impression of the camp’s inclusive atmosphere sharing a story about a camper, “During a group activity, she simply said, ‘You all are beautiful,’ and her words stuck with me. It made me feel safe and comfortable around everyone, showing the positive impact of kindness and acceptance at the camp.”

Advice for Prospective Participants
Prospective participants are encouraged to embrace the experience fully, with an open mind and readiness for change. The emphasis is on the personal growth and leadership development that comes from stepping outside one’s comfort zone, fostering an environment where every delegate can thrive.

In essence, the Red Cross Leadership Development Camp for Utah teens presents an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth and leadership development, rooted in inclusivity, empathy, and empowerment. Its legacy of transformation and community impact stands as a beacon for future generations of leaders.

As put by Angel, “Just go for it! Get ready to step out of your comfort zone! This camp is like nothing else out there. Don't be scared to try new stuff! I felt excited and nervous at first, but by the end of the week, I had made over 40 new friends. The staff is super nice and welcoming, and everyone fits in here.”

For more information
Visit redcross.org/LDC. To learn more about youth volunteering with the Red Cross email questions toYouthInvolvement@redcross.org or go to RedCross.org/youth.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or follow us on social media.