Members of the high school Summer Leadership Camp with their certificate.

OKEECHOBEE- The first of two scheduled Summer Leadership Camps concluded on June 15 at Okeechobee High School.

The camp is a partnership between Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation (OCEDC), The Education Foundation, and Okeechobee County Schools. It’s co-sponsored by Children Services Council. The purpose of the camp was to enhance local young leaders through personal development, career exploration, soft skill training, and prepare them for the future workforce.

A super flea market was proposed as a way to improve the Okeechobee community.

The first camp started on June 5, with students taking part in a wide range of activities, workshops, and team-building exercises. On June 13 students spent the day with members from the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and Okeechobee County Fire Rescue. Deputies and firefighters showed off the gear they use when responding to emergencies in Okeechobee and discussed the possible career pathways for students interested in joining these fields.

At the end of the camp, students developed ideas on projects they think would improve the community. Some of the projects shown at the end of camp were a drive-in theater, homeless shelter, an air park and a super flea market.

A trampoline park was suggested as a way to give kids something to do.

Students were asked to find a viable location for their project and develop a budget, as well for a plan on how they would raise the funds and a timeline for when the project would be complete.

“Leadership is a vital skill that can be developed at any age,” said Kaylee King, Business Manager of the Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation.

Kaylee King, president of the Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation.

 “Our Leadership Camp is a unique opportunity for students to learn and practice workforce leadership through the lens of soft skills in a fun and supportive environment,” said Alaina Barron, Executive Director of the Education Foundation of Okeechobee. “We want to empower the next generation of leaders to make a positive impact on their communities, their workforce, the state of Florida, and the world.”

The next Okeechobee Junior Leader Skills Camp will take place from June 19–29 at Okeechobee High School.

Members of the middle school group of the Summer Leadership Camp.