CLARKSVILLE, Tenn.- Thanks to Ms. Regina Dillard, a single mom who learned about the great services that the LEAP Organization offers to youth while working at the Department of Children’s Services for referring her daughter Danielle to the program.
Danielle, while not an at-risk youth, was eager to participate. She learned about the goals of LEAP’s youth enrichment programs. Danielle proudly mentions that LEAP changed her life in many different ways and helped her to develop the self-confidence that she needed to be successful. Enrolled in LEAP’s sophomore class in 2009, Danielle shares that she, “Walked into the program seven years ago very shy and unsure of myself. I struggled with math and LEAP’s tutors helped me to understand those complex algorithms that challenged me. LEAP’s Mentors were equally encouraging and supportive.”
She has remained drug and tobacco free for 7 years, improved her grades from C’s and D’s A’s and B’s, and upon completing LEAP’s Career Readiness Program, obtained employment at Citi Trends. Following her West Creek High School graduation, May 28th, Danielle will attend Tennessee State University.
LEAP provided the tools and Danielle put in the hard work. Danielle’s accolades included induction into the National Honor Society and she is the recipient of the 2016 Rotary Youth Leadership Award and graduate of Youth Leadership Clarksville. Although Danielle served as President of LEAP’s Youth Leadership Council, she never could have imagined that she would be capable to speak before the Mayor and County Commissioners.
Danielle says she is grateful for Executive Director, Reason Reason Garrett’s belief in her desire to join the military and pursue a career as a JAG attorney, that he arranged an intern for her at Kennedy Law Firm.
Danielle received a $1000 Joe Shakeenab Scholarship Award of Excellence at the Dining with the Stars Scholarship Gala and she shared this poem:
About LEAP
LEAP implements sustainable programs that equip and empower youth and entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources they need to improve their decision making to lead healthy, successful outcomes.