Top of Virginia Regional Chamber Arising Leadership Program Graduates

Our conversation for The Valley Business Today included Kaleigh Fincham, Director of Programs & Events for the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber with all the graduation details for the inaugural Arising Leadership Program.  The Arising Leadership Program is aimed at 16 and 17-year-olds, while the Community Leadership Program is for adults. The programs focus on exploring career & leadership opportunities in various sectors, providing hands-on experiences, and fostering community engagement. The program took place over the course of six full days in June culminating with their graduation on Thursday, June 20, 2024. We discuss the diverse experiences offered by the ALP, including visits to local businesses, government, healthcare, and public safety facilities. Kaleigh explains the positive impacts on students, including increased confidence and new career interests. We touch on logistics, challenges faced, future improvements, and ongoing community engagement through other chamber programs like the Community Leadership Programs (CLP) for adults. Registration for that program is open now through July 19, 2024. We wrap up this episode with interviews from students and their parents, who share their experiences and newfound inspirations from participating in the ALP.