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 work in the Better Together Leadership Program, the Mayor and Council will present Certificates of Special Mayoral Recognition to Firefighter Zach McGhie who will accept on behalf of the Better Together Leadership program and to Program Director Nick Gerrard who will accept on behalf of Planet Granite.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov> or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Genevieve Yip, Staff Analyst I
Approved by: Deanna J. Santana, City Manager