First Quarterly Leadership Meeting Sets the Stage for a Strong Service Year

The first Quarterly Leadership Meeting of the Service Year was a perfect way to kick of the 2025-26 Service Year. Hosted at Justin’s home, Team Leaders and Assistant Team Leaders gathered for dinner, connection, and a night of sharing ideas. This meeting allowed team leaders to get to know each other and begin to create a supportive environment to prepare for the year ahead. 

One of the best parts of the night was the “Team Leader Toolbox” exchange. Leaders shared their favorite tips for building strong teams which included everything from using GroupMe creatively, to making individual phone calls and texts, and ideas to getting Alum Leaders involved early. Suggestions about hosting monthly service projects and socials, keeping parents engaged, and even creative fundraising opportunities were presented. Everyone left with new ideas and strategies to help their teams feel connected and supported.

Another highlight was a team values exercise where Team Leaders and Assistant Team Leaders reflected on their personal values. These values, ranging from faith and family to inclusion, accountability, and serendipity, allowed for further discussion on how these values shape leadership style and team culture. Reflecting on values created a sense of shared purpose and gave leaders something they can bring back to their own teams. 

By the end of the night, Team Leaders and Assistant Team Leaders left better equipped to guide their teams through a successful Service Year and a reminder that they have a whole support team behind them. This first Quarterly Leadership meeting not only provided valuable tools and resources, but also reminded everyone that at the heart of Youthlinc is a community of leaders committed to service, growth, and plenty of fun along the way!