Buffalo, NY - Two of Leadership Buffalo's (LB) Class Experience and Rising Leaders classes have developed and executed sustainable community service projects.  

The 2012 class partnered with Enterprise Charter School and head of school, Heather Lyon, to create an annual career day for 5^th and 6^th graders.  Guest speakers, both from the class and community, spoke with the students.  The purpose of the project is to provide an opportunity to learn about careers in the Buffalo area and what education and commitment it takes to achieve their dream jobs.      

"'Speed Career Fair' is a speed dating twist on the traditional career fair," said Lauren Glose, Rising Leader 2012 member.  "Our class project aims to help make the connection between a student's favorite subject(s) in school and careers that align with that passion."

The Class of 2013 is working with the Food Bank of WNY to benefit the BackPack Program at PS 74 Hamlin Park School. The class will raise funds for Hamlin through corporate sponsorships and fundraisers.  Members of the class also have the opportunity to volunteer in the school, packing the bags and working with the students. 

"We hope to make the Backpack Program at Hamlin Park School sustainable, so that students will be able to focus on what is important: getting a good education," said Marcey Bryant, Rising Leader 2013 member.   "We know that hunger is not a problem that can be solved overnight, but if we can help make a difference to even one student, we will have done our job."

In 2012, the Class Project was initiated in order to continue the LB experience after graduation. The class worked together to select an idea and form a cohesive plan to execute and maintain.

"The intention of the projects is to put the knowledge the students gain throughout the year to work," said Althea E. Luehrsen, executive director.  "The projects also encourage class engagement and continued connections as the projects require consistency and teamwork."

More information about the projects can be found online at www.leadershipbuffalo.org/class-projects

About Leadership Buffalo:

Leadership Buffalo, Inc. (LB) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1987 with one mission: to unite existing and emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds and perspectives in order to increase their knowledge of community issues, broaden their vision and enhance their ability to lead.

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