House Resolution 17

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE PARTICIPANTS OF THE HOLMES COUNTY YOUTH INITIATIVE PROGRAM, "LEADERSHIP FOR LIFE."

WHEREAS, "Leadership For Life" is a youth initiative program developed especially for the youth of Holmes County, Mississippi, which originated from the works of the Robert Clark 21st Century Commission's Social Infrastructure Task Force; and

WHEREAS, the eight-month program, which began in September 2001, is jointly sponsored by the Mississippi Development Authority and the Holmes County Delegation of Mississippi State University Extension Services; and

WHEREAS, Leadership For Life is composed of 35, 10th, 11th and 12th grade students and educators from five area public and private schools, including: S. V. Marshall High School; Durant High School; Central Holmes Christian School; J. J. McClain High School; and William Sullivan High School; and

WHEREAS, by participating in the Leadership For Life youth initiative program, students conceptualize real world situations in an atmosphere that promotes educational enhancement; and

WHEREAS, provided with guidance and counsel by representatives of the Mississippi Development Authority, staff personnel of the Mississippi State University Extension Services, local educators and 4-H volunteers, Leadership For Life offers an extensive variety of enriching activities for its participating members; and

WHEREAS, Leadership For Life allots one day out of every month to topics such as team building, communication, diversity and conflict resolution and through teen forums and similar activities, affords students an opportunity to discuss critical issues facing teens and to participate in drug awareness programs; and

WHEREAS, throughout the program's existence, keynote speakers have addressed the group, providing valuable insight on different perspectives of life, education and professionalism; and

WHEREAS, Leadership For Life, while invoking a spirit of cooperation, also generates the essence of independence within the participants, instilling corporate and business values in their young minds through avenues such as its entrepreneurial program; and

WHEREAS, on April 10, 2002, Leadership For Life participants, in the presence of state, local and school officials, family and friends, will commemorate the program's success with a commencement banquet during which those involved will be presented certificates of participation and completion; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives of the State of Mississippi to recognize and commend excellence, especially when evidenced by the young people of our state, who are its future:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate the participants of the Holmes County Youth Initiative Program, Leadership For Life, and further, commemorate Leadership For Life on its success in bridging the social gap between youth and society.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Central Holmes Christian School, Durant High School, S. V. Marshall High School, J. J. McClain High School, William Sullivan High School and the members of the Capitol Press Corps.