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Youth Programs

Building Tomorrow's Leaders

Inspiring future leaders and problem-solvers through interactive programs, both inside and outside the classroom. Our single-session and multi-session workshops provide a platform for empowering youth to meet life’s challenges with confidence and competence. After-school programs for 3rd through 12th grade. Leadership training, peer mentoring, dramatic performances, and community service, are just a few of the ways our youth get involved and make a difference in the lives of others.

“The leadership program gave me a more in depth understanding of all of the skills necessary to help round out my education. Public speaking, working efficiently within groups, managing conflict resolution and building good decision making skills are so critical to being able to be successful in life. The time invested was well worth it!”

Alexandra, St. Lukes Junior

“No matter who you are or where you are in your leadership journey, there is something to be gained from this program by everyone.”

Cole, NCHS Sophomore

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

KidPOWER (GRADES 3-4)

The KidPOWER program is a unique opportunity for third and fourth graders to learn valuable life skills in an open environment.

Led by a CARES faculty mentor and high school leaders, students are presented with a multitude of interactive games and activities which facilitate communication, problem-solving, self-confidence, and resilience.

These after-school workshops foster friendship and teamwork, while providing a safe and fun environment for kids to be themselves.

Skills Addressed

  • Self-Confidence
  • Problem Solving
  • Communication
  • Team Building

MIDDLE SCHOOL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

The Middle School Leadership Program provides 7th and 8th grade students with the opportunity to work with an adult mentor and their peers on developing their leadership skills. This 6 week program is designed to help students enhance their social skills which are so important at this developmental stage.

This program is able to teach valuable skills such as team building, communication, problem solving, and public speaking through a variety of interactive games and activities. Offered after school at Saxe Middle School.

Skills Addressed

  • Team Building
  • Problem Solving
  • Communication
  • Decision Making
  • Resilience
  • Public Speaking

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM

Leadership Program

This program trains current high school students in the community to become successful driven leaders. This program leaves kids with a multitude of leadership skills designed to serve them in future endeavors even beyond their high school environments. By allowing students to step outside the classroom and get involved in a variety of community organizations, they learn they can truly make a difference in the lives of others.

Students are able to grow individually and alongside their peers in a supportive and fun environment. This knowledge-filled program leaves students capable and confident to take on the next chapter in their life. Admittance into Leadership Program is by nomination: parent, peer, self, faculty, and/or community leader. Nominations may be sent to CARESinfo@newcanaanCARES.org

Skills Addressed

  • Public Speaking
  • Time Management
  • Organization
  • Poise & Presence
“Even if you think you know everything there is to know about leadership, you will walk way from this program a better leader and a better person.”

Alex G., NCHS JR

Click here for a slideshow of our former Leadership Graduates.

Click here to see recent High School leaders videos as part of their community service projects.

Public Safety Announcement – Safe Drug Disposal

COVID – Health and safety for elementary kids

Transition to High School – Tips for Rising Freshmen

PRIVATE GROUP WORKSHOPS

CARES offers private workshops for youth groups (i.e. NCL, Girl Scouts, SLOBs, etc.) on a variety of topics. Programs are offered as 1-3 session sets, with knowledge, skill, and practical application components. Topics include Peer Pressure, Exclusion, Transitions, and much more.

Please contact us to schedule a workshop for your group.

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