Being in nature, being surrounded by people who genuinely care about them, being able to run around…brings hope.”
Middle School Teacher
Twin Cities LEAD is a Dunrovin program that invests in youth. It brings together small teams of high school teen leaders who offer a leadership retreat for low-income Catholic school middle school students. This dynamic of bringing youth together works in an energetic, fun, and life-changing environment. Students are all invited into an experience of God’s love. Foundation and benefactor support make it possible for LEAD Encounter and LEAD Training to be given at no cost to the schools or students. This program exists due to the big-hearted generosity of LEAD benefactors.
Understanding the Twin Cities LEAD dynamics:
First, the high school teen leaders participate in LEAD Training retreats designed to nurture growth in servant leadership, community building, personal development, and faith. Teen leaders learn an others-centered mindset; they grow in respect, generosity, active listening skills, and the joy of walking alongside others. The teen leaders act as role models and learn to take a genuine interest in the young students who they will serve.
It helped me trust that God has me here for a reason and that I can allow him to work through me.”
10th grade teen leader
After training, the high school team (up to ten students, typically from one high school) offers a LEAD Encounter retreat for underserved populations in qualifying local Catholic middle schools. These low-income students will come on life-transforming one-day retreats. Teambuilding activities teach the students to work together. Through experiential learning, the students listen to each other, respect new ideas, and discover they can overcome the “obstacles” presented in teambuilding. A no-competition attitude is fostered in order to build unity and community. Students also play games, enjoy meals, and pray together.
I learned today to be kind.”
13-year-old Catholic school student
Teachers and principals highly recommended these simple but transformative retreats. Space is limited. Learn more about the three-step LEAD program here or call to discuss options for your group’s needs.
[The teen leaders] were great role models, being respectful, helpful, encouraging, and positive at all times.”
Catholic School teacher of 7th and 8th grades
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Programs@dunrovin.org | 651-433-2486