Extended Family Leadership Academy (EFLA) is an 18-week course which begins with a survey of the participants to help them identify the qualities of their dream job and explore what occupations appeal to them and why. That information is then used to tailor the lessons to those students to include information and presenters who match their interests, along with lessons in personal leadership. EFLA is as diverse as the interests of the students who participate in it.
EFLA covers three main topics during each series: job readiness, including practicing interview skills; health, including maintaining good physical and mental health and identifying healthy relationships; and communication, including the art of making friends, the power of a thank you note, when and how to use phone/text/social media appropriately, and more. Additionally, students are introduced to community leaders who can guide them into a successful transition into adulthood, which begins with choosing the right career. At the end of the EFLA course, Extended Family takes senior students on a shopping trip and purchases business attire to help them be ready for their interviews.
One EFLA lesson teaches students to complete a scholarship application using the Extended Family Leadership Academy Scholarship. All seniors who participate in EFLA are eligible to apply. This year, through the generosity of private donors, we are proud to have selected four scholarship recipients. Congratulations to Morgan Putman of West End High School, Dennis Francis of Anniston High School, and Autumn Burkhead and Mikayla Welchel, both of Gaylesville High School.
We at Extended Family are excited to support our EFLA students as they plan for their futures and follow their dreams. Learn more about Extended Family on our website, www.extendedfamilyhelp.org.