Leadership Oswego County Youth (LOCY) is now accepting applications from Oswego County high school students who are interested in developing their leadership skills.

In an effort to have all nine county school districts involved, the Oswego-City County Youth Bureau sponsors the tuition cost for two to four students per school district. In order to be able to offer this program experience and ensure best use of sponsorship funds, full commitment to the program by the student is imperative.

“All high school students are welcome to join LOCY,” said Oswego City-County Youth Bureau Executive Director Brian Chetney. “We are looking for students who will be fully committed to the program and have a dedication to learning and growing. LOCY does not require high academic, athletic or musical achievement, but attendance and participation are essential to be successful in the program.”

LOCY focuses on helping high school students develop leadership, public speaking, team building, community awareness, decision-making skills and much more. The curriculum is built on a series of lessons, workshops and activities that reinforce aspects of personal, team and community growth, and combine discussions and activities that relate to the Oswego County community.

“LOCY equips students with valuable life-long skills that will help them to serve their schools and communities, now and on into their adult lives,” said Oswego County Youth Activities Coordinator Kristen Slimmer. “Our goal is to have students involved from each school district, as it is important to have all areas of Oswego County represented. Having student involvement county-wide provides LOCY students with better networking opportunities and helps them to have a complete view of their own county.”

Any high school student interested in participating may apply online at https://zfrmz.com/XQe8KYVvmFkcQX3WVvj3 . Application deadline is Sunday, June 25. 

After registration, students who sign up will be contacted by the program coordinator with information to access the program orientation. The LOCY virtual orientation program begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 9. Youth enrolled in the program and their parents/guardians will be able to learn more about the program and the expectations of its students, and have their questions answered. 

Heading into its 25th year, the program is coordinated by the Oswego City-County Youth Bureau and supported by the Youth Bureau, Oswego County Opportunities, Inc. and LOCY graduates who volunteer their time.