http://2cccd5dfe1965e26adf6-26c50ce30a6867b5a67335a93e186605.r53.cf1.rackcdn.com/leaf-wrap.mp3
Emboldened by the success the city of Pittsburgh has had with its Civic Leadership Academy, Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl's office has created a similar program called the Civic Leaders for an Environmentally Alternative Future (LEAF) Academy. Both initiatives focus on sustainability and going green, but the LEAF Academy is different in that it allows participants to take a closer look at how the city's government is working to protect the environment.
Joanna Doven, Press Secretary for the Mayor, said applicants must be middle school, high school or college students who live and go to school in Pittsburgh.
"Special consideration will be given to applicants who are highly motivated, demonstrate interest in local government and environmental protection and indicate commitment to using the experience to make a positive impact in their neighborhoods and schools," Doven said.
Selected applicants will participate in a five-week program starting June 18th involving Wednesday and Saturday learning sessions with lectures, field trips, and hands-on activities. Doven said the LEAF Academy strives to benefit the students and their neighborhoods.
"As we gain more community stakeholders through programs like Civic LEAF Academy, together we can really more positively impact our environment really one block at a time," Doven said. "In addition, it's really important that we're shaping and investing in young leaders right now."
Applications to take part in the program are due by Monday, June 11th.
