O
n Friday, October 25, 2024, the Junior Ambassador Program from Euclid High School took center stage at the Huntington Convention Center to present at the Starting Point Out of School Time Symposium. These exceptional Students led a powerful breakout session titled “Youth Voice, From School to Community,” showcasing their commitment to leadership, advocacy, and peer-to-peer engagement.
The symposium brought together a diverse group of organizations and professionals dedicated to supporting out-of-school programs across the county. During the session, moderated by Elizabeth Russo, M.Ed., LSW, and Diahna Davis, MA, Psy.S., the Junior Ambassadors captivated their audience with an engaging discussion on identifying issues within their school and community and developing action plans for meaningful change. The moderators, both experts in youth development and mental health, guided the conversation as students explored strategies for amplifying their voices and fostering collaboration to drive a collective impact.
The students’ session highlighted the unique role of the Junior Ambassadors in bridging the gap between school and community. They shared their experiences working within Euclid High School to influence positive change and outlined their ongoing efforts to strengthen connections with their peers and the wider community. Their insights resonated with many attendees, including program providers and representatives of funded initiatives from across the region.
This opportunity was made possible through a grant provided by Making A Difference Consulting, led by Angela Flowers, and funded by Starting Point. The grant supports the Junior Ambassadors’ after-school program at Euclid High School, empowering students to take an active role in community engagement and advocacy.
Reflecting on the event, Euclid High School’s Principal, Corey Russell, praised the students’ dedication and professionalism, stating, “Our Junior Ambassadors have demonstrated not only their leadership capabilities but their passion for making a real difference in our school and community. Their voice and vision continue to inspire us all.”
The Junior Ambassadors’ presentation exemplified the impact of youth-led initiatives and underscored the importance of giving students a platform to share their perspectives. Euclid High School is proud of their achievements and looks forward to supporting their future endeavors in advocacy and leadership.