We have been known as The Leadership Center for the better part of 20 years now. Before that, we were the Nebraska Youth Leadership Camp.  Over the last 10 years, we have been slowly been adding facilitation to our offerings. Four years ago, we were asked by a group of educators to design a leadership conference for a large age-range of participants. From that, D4LC was born. D4LC stands for Disciplines 4 Leadership Communities. Four years in, with numerous additions to our facilitation offerings, D4LC has become the umbrella title of our programs. This year, what was once called the D4LC Confernece is now called Explore. 

The D4LC: Explore Conference is in its fourth year and is the foundational component to our leadership training program.  Designed for youth and young adults ages 13 to 18, D4LC: Explore consists of two days of leadership education, practice, and reflection in the areas of Community, Service, Relationships, Interpersonal Development, Gratitude, and more. We include an emphasis on professional etiquette, physical activity, and healthy lifestyles as well. 

Our first session this summer was a week ago and it was wonderful. Those who attended participated in the following session: 

Community- a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. This session focuses on what a community is and how community will work into the entire D4LC: Explore program. It is an active, creative session. 

Serve- the action of helping or doing work for someone or some group; to give a helping hand. This session explores what it means to serve in a community and the facets service takes. This session also involves an impactful service project. 

Practicum- the part of a course consisting of practical work in a particular field; to practice. They say practice makes perfect. In this session, we will explore and practice questions, answers and all the things that make interviews fun. 

Play- engage in activity for enjoyment. It can’t all be work! During this time, we want you to take part in an activity you enjoy for pleasure and fun. 

Connect- to reach out and establish a relationship or relationships; to network with others. In this session, we connect over food through an informational, interactive and fun etiquette and networking dinner. 

Worth- having value of, or equal in value to and weighted. In this session, we take a look inside to discover what makes you valuable and worthy. 

Invest- to use, give, or devote (time, talent, etc.) as for a purpose or to achieve something. This session focuses on building your dreams. 

Relax- rest or engage in an enjoyable activity so as to become less tired or anxious. We’re kicking back and enjoying a bonfire, s’mores and fellowship. 

Get Active- pursuing hobbies or activities outside of work and regiment; get moving and play. Being a part of a community isn’t just work, it is play too. In this session, we will focus on how hobbies are an important part of leadership and community. 

Challenge- a call or summons to engage in any contest, as of skill, strength, etc. Handling adversity builds character, skills, and if you are lucky, great stories. In this session, we’ll explore all of these. 

Kind- of a good or benevolent nature or disposition, as a person; indulgent, considerate, or helpful. In this session we look at how putting good into those around you makes life a little more beautiful. 

Life- to find meaning through practice or doing something you are passionate about to create a lasting experience. This session focuses on creating and crafting your story. 

Beyond- farther on than; moving forward. As we wrap up the conference, we will take some time to reflect on all we have learned and how we can use these tools as we go out into the world. 

While the conference has a jampacked schedule, all those in attendance had a great time. Whether it was learning how to answer hard questions, contemplating how to make kindness a habit or singing around the bonfire with Kurt enjoying s’mores, attendees had a blast. It is fair to say, our staff had a great time too. How could they not, when surrounded by such incredible energy and inspiration? 

“I started to really think about spreading kindness, and this was probably the most fun and inspiration I have ever experienced at a camp.” 

“All the sessions ask you to consider your future and plan for your dreams which is is beneficial in the long run. PS Any chance you could do a session for college students?” (YES!) 

“This is the best conference I have ever sent students to. This program meets students where they are at and shows them how to lead from there.” 

In July, we have four more sessions for those interested in attending. Click here for more information. There you will find dates, registration and waivers. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to give us a call at 402-694-3934 or email us. 

We look forward to seeing you!