TILT

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2012

TILT Gwinnet County, GA Population: 726,273 Gwinnett County’s Teens in Leadership Training (TILT) program is keeping young teens involved in Parks and Recreation summer camps and classes while helping meet the County’s growing need for volunteers. With many teenagers in the community too old to attend summer camp but not of age to begin employment, TILT offers an opportunity for teens to learn leadership skills and gain experience that prepares them for the summer Counselor in Training (CIT) program and to become a volunteer Counselor when they are old enough. This program provides skills and training necessary for young teens to become positive role models for campers now and exceptional counselors and camp directors in the future by encouraging teens to be actively involved in the community and lend their time and talents to the success of various events and activities. Parks and Recreation partners with Gwinnett United in Drug Education (GUIDE) and Junior Achievement to provide eleven hours of TILT training over two consecutive days. Instructors emphasize self-confidence and goal setting as participants learn how their actions and reactions affect others. Training includes real-life examples of leadership in action and homework assignments include teaching a game and evaluating the process. TILT is a hands-on experience that brings summer camp to life from a leader’s perspective and stresses the desired positive outcomes. TILT participants serve 13,200 hours, saving Gwinnett County $132,000 and providing an immeasurable service to citizens. Graduates spend their time volunteering at special events, camps, and daily operations, developing a sense of belonging and ownership.