Payton Baggett Reporting
news@clarksvillenow.com
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The Leap Organization of Clarksville recognized a group of students at its Youth Graduation Ceremony the night of October 30 at the Leap Plaza, located at 1860 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., in the building that previously housed the Daymar Institute.
The Youth Development program is conducted in conjunction with Clarksville Parks and Recreation at the Leap Plaza, Kleeman, Burt Cobb, and Crow Community Centers.
Founded by the vision of its Executive Director, Richard “Reason” Garrett, who was honored at the graduation ceremony with a framed basketball, LEAP started in recreation centers and churches. Adult mentors from the community volunteer to work with the children every week of the program.
The requirements to graduate from any of the three phases of the LEAP program include attendance at nine out of the twelve class meetings, being respectful of the mentors, and not being disruptive in class.
The curriculum of Phase 1 teaches students about the topics of drugs, alcohol, and sex education to help them make informed decisions in the choices they make regarding these subjects. Phase 2 covers the topics of leadership, diversity, and finances by inviting various guest speakers to share personal knowledge with students.
Nine students graduated from Phase 1 and six graduated from Phase 2. Those in Phase 2 were formally appointed to positions which will allow them to mentor and lead the students in the other stages of the program. They will be preparing for college and careers in Phase 3 by making campus tours and applying the knowledge that they have learned in the previous phases.
For information on the LEAP Organization, visit www.leaporg.net.
See photos from the graduation below.