This class will focus on a framework that involves practical skills that are essential for professional growth as well as working with youth and youth programs. The components of this approach encompass a complementary and integrated skill set that involves, Listening, Empowering Esteem, Advocacy, and Development (LEAD). Students will examine their practices in each area. The purpose of the LEAD approach is to stimulate and promote positive influence and behavior change. The LEAD framework serves as a developmental framework to facilitate higher level consciousness, encourage learning that is transformative, enhance understanding of esteem, and encourage a positive and proactive approached for self and youth advocacy.