The councilman is partnering with Speak OUt! Toastmasters, the city’s Department of Health and Human Services’ Weed and Seed Program, the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Long Beach to offer Sixth District youth leadership and communications skills training.
The eight-week workshop series is free and will focus on empowering local youth ages 15 to 19 by assisting them in developing their communication skills and enhancing their self confidence, according to information provided by Sixth District staffer Tonya Martin.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity to positively impact the lives of our youth,” Andrews said in a prepared statement. “We must allow them the chance to develop their leadership skills so that they can communicate their gifts to enrich our community.”
The first class is set for Wednesday, April 20, at 4 p.m. in the social hall of Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 1950 Lemon Ave. The classes will continue weekly on Wednesdays at the same time and location for the remaining seven weeks.
The Communication and Leadership Program will be instructed by LOng Beach-based Speak Out! Toastmasters club members Jack Roberts, Saba McKinley and Carma Spence and has been designed to assist participants in overcoming the fear and nervousness associated with public speaking, Martin said.
Upon completion of the eight-week program, the youth will participate in a formal graduation ceremony.
Space is limited and registration is required by calling the Sixth District Office at 562-570-6816.