Tampa Y Teens at Blue Ridge Leaders’ School.
The Tampa YMCA is proud to share that we sent 90 teens to the esteemed YMCA Blue Ridge Leaders' School this summer. Since its founding in 1922, the Blue Ridge Leaders' School has retained its tradition of developing teen leaders in all aspects of the YMCA’s physical education and instilling the Y’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
Set amidst the picturesque North Carolina Mountains, the Leaders’ School offers a one-of-a-kind and immersive experience. It's a place where leadership skills are honed, personal growth is fostered and lifelong friendships are formed, making it an experience like no other.
For the Tampa teens, this journey is not just a summer trip. It’s a transformative experience that allows them to discover their potential, explore their passions and gain a deeper understanding of themselves, inspiring them to reach new heights.
This year, four Tampa teens were highlighted as 2024 Honor Leaders. These teens include:
- Dru Seymour - South Tampa Family YMCA
- Vikas Pulickathadam – Northwest Hillsborough Family YMCA
- Elliott Dill - Northwest Hillsborough Family YMCA
- Tara Senkowicz - Northwest Hillsborough Family YMCA
Honor Leaders are an elite group of teens who attended Blue Ridge and stood out among the staff, volunteers and peers as the best of the best.
Being selected as an Honor Leader comes with the privilege and responsibility of returning the following summer to teach fundamental leadership classes to first-year leaders. The Honor Leaders will also select the school theme and present opening and closing devotions and nightly vespers.
In addition to our outstanding four Honor Leaders, the Tampa YMCA is proud to highlight three Senior Leaders who went above and beyond at this summer at Leaders’ School.
Senior Leaders Logan Culver from our North Brandon YMCA, Laura Wolfe from our New Tampa YMCA, and Cade McCarter from our South Tampa YMCA went the extra mile to ensure each teen had a memorable and positive experience on the mountain.
Anne Jeffery, Senior Program Director at the South Tampa YMCA, shares, "I have worked with many Senior Leaders over the years who have used their title to extend their time at Blue Ridge and have been there for the social aspect. This year, Logan, Laura and Cade went above and beyond any and all expectations I had."
She adds, "The three responded at any time to help, were present at all classes and even more during their free time to ask where they can help. They supported and guided teens in their Club who went through some emotional times on the mountain."
We are proud of our teens for their dedication to the Teen Leaders Program and commitment to bettering themselves and their community. To learn more about the Y's Teen Leaders Club, click here!
Published Tuesday, July 16, 2024.