REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Recognition of Better Together Leadership Program
Report
BACKGROUND
Better Together Leadership was established in 1989 by the Santa Clara Firefighters Local 1171, and is funded today by the Santa Clara City Firefighters Foundation. The Santa Clara City Firefighters Foundation pays for all the equipment and associated costs incurred by the Better Together Leadership program.
The Better Together Leadership program began as a program that worked with "high-risk" students. As the program grew, it evolved into a leadership program, focused on self-esteem, decision-making, communication, and teamwork. Each year, the Better Together Leadership program facilitators donate their time to this valuable program. A core group of firefighters meet with students every week and help facilitate different activities that will showcase their strengths and build on their weaknesses.
Nearly 20 years ago, the Better Together Leadership program started its partnership with Planet Granite and began exploring how climbing could be used as a tool for positive change for at-risk youth in the Santa Clara community and beyond. Climbing is used as the main development instrument to foster discipline, focus, trust, camaraderie, leadership, improved self-esteem, and to reduce stress and aggression.
DISCUSSION
The Better Together Leadership program continues to succeed due to the dedication and commitment of the members of the Santa Clara Firefighters' Local 1171 and through the continued support of the Santa Clara Fire Department and the Santa Clara Unified School District.
The partnership between Better Together Leadership and Planet Granite aims to foster the students' personal growth while providing an environment where students feel safe and capable of trying new things. Through this amazing experience, climbing has helped these students reach new heights by fostering trust, communication, and positive values.
In recognition for their dedicated ...
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