I had the amazing opportunity to train some really great individuals last week in Ottawa. The small group of students were a part of the Ontario Government's Learn and Work Program and were the first of 4 L&W groups I'll be training from Nov. to Jan.

The program is designed for youth between the ages of 16 and 19 who have left high school without a diploma. Once they've completed the program, participants will have earned up to 10 academic credits toward their high school diploma and up to 27 weeks of meaningful work experience in the Ontario Public Service and its Crown agencies.

The one-day training session entitled "Facilitative Leadership in the Workplace" gave students an intro to the Focused Conversation Method and how they might use it in their placements as an effective communication tool.

Former YFL Director Leah Taylor accompanied me as co-trainer and though it was quick, was still an inspiring road trip for both of us that really highlighted the importance of positive, innovative approaches to education. It's really wonderful to see a program that addresses the needs of different types of learners or those that for whatever reason aren't able to complete their high school education in the traditional way.

For a news release about the program see: http://www.gov.on.ca/mgs/en/News/Print/246801.html

For more information about YFL and our training opportunities, visit www.icacan.ca

I am inspired and amazed following this weekend's training of our Young Community Leaders at a camp outside of Sudbury, ON. Young people from Sudbury and North Bay gathered to learn about and plan for some Intensive Community Development in their communities.

Social Process Triangles, Gridding, Frameworking, Action Planning...so many wonderful community development tools. It was a grueling schedule that extended into the evening to include additional pieces about team building, professionalism, communication & the value of storytelling.

The volunteers returned to their communities yesterday evening and will continue on their journey towards real and positive social change.

I really need to acknowledge our amazing partners, the YMCAs in Sudbury and North Bay who have been so essential is getting this project off the ground. It's so wonderful to partner with, be supported by and learn from an organization as established and loved as the Y. Also deserving of some serious recognition is ICA Associates' own John Miller who donated his time, energy, wisdom and wonderful company to this training experience.

You amaze me my YCL crew...you are all such gems. Best of luck in the coming weeks with your flurry of activity!