December 3, 2007
To:
Select Middle School Students in Monona County
From:
Cheri Hardison
ISU Extension Education Director for Monona County
FR:
Ricochet: An Extreme Leadership Adventure
A unique youth leadership program is being offered in Monona County and you
are invited to participate. Iowa State University Extension in Monona County has
been involved in designing this program with you in mind.
 Do you like to learn through fun activities and challenges?
 Have you ever wondered why some people seem to be so successful
in moving others toward getting things planned and done?
 Would you like to know more about yourself and others; and
working together with others who have different ideas and styles
than you?
 Would you like to help plan and conduct a needed project or
service in the county?
 And how about enjoying good food and making new friends?
Ricochet has been introduced to community leaders, businesses and
organizations in Monona County. They have been asked to recommend youth in
the county to invite to participate in this program. You have been recommended
by
________________________________________________________________
Please consider the schedule of Ricochet as outlined in the enclosed brochure.
Notice that there will be four sessions held in different location in Monona
County. The first retreat session is planned for you to get better acquainted with
the other Ricochet participants and instructors. There will be adult supervision
and support at all times. This will be a lock-in setting, so bring sleeping bags for
sleeping
Two Saturday morning sessions will follow. You will have an opportunity to learn
from community leaders and to be on a team to identify, plan and conduct a
project or service in the community. The fourth session will be a celebration
reception with parents, community supporters and media invited. We will share
highlights from the program and recognize you for your accomplishments in
Ricochet.
We are in the process of developing three phases of youth leadership training.
Those who complete each level of Ricochet will be invited to build on their
leadership skills and knowledge through participation in the next phases in the
coming years. So far, 36 youth in Monona County have completed Ricochet:
An Extreme Leadership Adventure (level 1) and 12 have completed Ricochet:
The Adventure Continues (level 2).
Our communities are asking for emerging leadership to help them grow and
prosper. They are asking for involvement of youth in helping communities lead
the way. They are asking for you to be prepared to lead the future.
Participation in Ricochet will be limited to 25. A group of that size will be most
manageable and will create an optimum learning environment for you. If more
than 25 apply to participate, a local planning committee will review the
applications for selection. If fewer that 25 apply by December 28, other youth will
be welcome to register. You may name others who are interested on your
application form for possible participation if space permits.
The fee to participate is only $25 per person due to generous support in the
county for other costs. Send your Application for Enrollment along with $25 to
the Extension Office by December 28 to be considered for this exciting
opportunity. Youth who are not current 4-H members will also need to complete
both sides of the Release/Health Form. Everyone will receive confirmation notice
and further details upon receipt of registration.
Please call me (712/423-2175) or e-mail me (chardi@iastate.edu) if you have
any questions. I hope to hear from you soon.
Encl: Ricochet program brochure
Application for Enrollment