Local student attends leadership conference

Beau Kelsch, a 14-year-old freshman at McIntosh High School, recently attended the week-long American Red Cross Leadership Development Conference at Emory University. According to event organizer Kristi Couch, the annual conference is designed to provide "focused, thought-provoking, skill-building experiences in leadership and service."

Kelsch was able to participate in core workshops that included conflict management, team building and diversity. Meeting management, advanced education preparation, theater improvisation and driving on the open road made up the elective workshops.

More than 225 high school age youngsters from throughout the metro Atlanta area attended the conference.

What motivated Kelsch to attend?

"I like to be a leader and want to become better," he said. Kelsch feels he made the right decision, explaining that the conference taught him to work with people.

According to Couch, the students also participated in various social events such as a roller skating party and a talent show and worked in various teams to perform various community service projects.

"This was an exciting week for these young people, many of whom were away from home for the first time," said Couch. "They learned the value of teamwork and serving their communities."

Kelsch, a Peachtree City resident, was quick to urge other high schoolers to attend next year's conference. "Yes, I recommend it," he said. "It was a great experience meeting people and learning."

Couch explained that there are similar Red Cross programs for middle and elementary school students. The Middle School Leadership Development Conference will take place in October. The elementary school programs are conducted on Saturdays at various locations throughout the metro area.

Phone the South Metro Red Cross Service Center at 770-961-2552 for more information.

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