By Dot Leakey, District Secretary

On June 16, 2006 seventy-four youth and ten adults began a weekend of building friendships, learning about leadership, and the meaning of teamwork in overcoming challenges and obstacles.  Brian Ritchie was the Head Coach and was supported by eight student facilitators.  Brian told the group that they were going to learn all about “service leadership” which is helping others become better through 1) personal integrity - doing the right thing, 2) personal growth – developing in mind, body, and spirit, 3) respect – showing consideration for self, others, and property, 4) building community – developing relationships to achieve positive goals, and 5) the pursuit of excellence – expecting and achieving the best.

The students were immediately challenged to identify:  1) someone who was a key influence in their life, 2) two words that are important to them, 3) something they were afraid to do, but they did it anyway, and 4) why did they choose to attend Key Leader Weekend?

Friday evening each of the student facilitators was given the names of 8 to 10 youth and each group became a neighborhood.  Each neighborhood then had to decide on a name, a logo, and a short cheer.  They had the challenge of how to make their neighborhood the best.  Each person had their own mail box (a lunch sack) and constructive notes could be put in a mail box throughout the weekend. 

Saturday the youth enjoyed a time at the Stone Nature Center.  It has one of the largest adventure challenge course in the state of Kansas.  The Center's 56-element course is a stimulating outdoor experience for groups of all ages and abilities. 

 The course promotes better group functioning, through learning to identify and utilize strengths. Groups work through carefully sequenced problem solving activities requiring communication, cooperation, and teamwork. The course promotes teambuilding and helps each group: 1) Improve leadership skills, 2) enhance trust and effectiveness, 3) enhance creative problem solving, and 4) improve self-esteem. 

As one key leader student remarked “I developed so many new values and abilities.  It was great meeting such a big group of people. I learned so much at the challenge course.  This weekend was such a great success.”

Another one thanked everyone for a wonderful weekend.  She stated “I learned so much and I am sure it will help my key club and my Thespian Society.  I really appreciated all the work you have done”.   

This event was successful thanks to the hard work of many Kiwanians—Thanks to those who volunteered to help out.  Also, congratulations to Robert Maxwell and Steve and Pat Wiechman for organizing such an excellent event!