As we wrap up summer and head into another school year, we celebrate thirteen local students who recently graduated from United Way of Northwest Georgia’s goLEAD program—an immersive three-day leadership experience held July 29–31. I am proud of these students and our staff leadership at United Way, who pour into these students to help them become better leaders and better community citizens.
goLEAD (Leadership Education and Development) is United Way’s signature youth leadership program, offering high school students 21 hours of leadership training, team building, and community engagement.
Throughout the program, students explored personal leadership styles, practiced active listening, refined their communication skills, and strengthened their confidence through hands-on learning. “This year, I am reminded of the strength and heart of our community—one that shows up, leans in, and invests deeply in the next generation of leaders. GoLEAD would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our partners, who share our commitment to empowering youth and building stronger, more connected communities. Together, we are not only shaping future leaders—we're creating a legacy of impact that will last for years to come,” shared Hayley Poillucci, Director of Volunteer Engagement and Youth United Staff Support.
Reflecting on the experience, Victoria Amaro goLEAD participant, remarked, “I’m so thankful that I was able to experience goLEAD! I learned so much about not just myself, but also others. I learned more about what it means to be a leader and the ways we can make other people feel that they are heard. I enjoyed the program because I truly felt that I was engaging with others and becoming more prepared to serve in my community!”
The goLEAD program delivers leadership training often reserved for professionals in the corporate and public sectors. Through engaging workshops, real-world experiences, and meaningful service projects, students gain the tools to become confident leaders, effective communicators, and active changemakers in their communities. United Way staff worked diligently to create a dynamic and impactful experience for each participant.
Jessica Carnes, United Way Digital Engagement Manager and Youth United Staff Support, said, “It’s always inspiring to see the youth of our community come together for goLEAD, and this year was no exception. From the very first day, students were eager to dive into leadership activities, get to know one another, and, most importantly, learn more about themselves! Throughout the week, we watched them grow in confidence, build new friendships, and discover how they can lead with purpose in their schools and communities."
The week began with resume writing, personal branding, and leadership development workshops led by the 4-H Clubs of Whitfield and Murray County. Day two featured a financial literacy session by BDL Advisors and a visit to Shaw Industries, exploring their corporate campus, company store, and maker space with their brilliant engineer interns. We also enjoyed hosting the University of Georgia's Undergraduate Admissions team. Their insights into the college admissions process were invaluable.
Xander Sane, a goLEAD participant, noted, “goLEAD was an incredibly valuable experience for me. I met great people, learned valuable lessons about communication and leadership, and gained insight into what certain careers may look like and what careers are available to me. I will carry what I learned at goLEAD with me as I enter college and beyond!”
The final day emphasized service. Students gathered at Haig Mill Park to help beautify the space by rewrapping trash cans in the community pavilion area in partnership with Keep Whitfield-Dalton Beautiful. Afterward, they enjoyed a celebratory lunch together.
Congratulations to the 2025 goLEAD graduates: Victoria Amaro, Charlie Beckler, Jezabell Gutierrez, Thania Landa, Emily Lopez, Thea Maret, Desiree Nava, Andy Nguyen, Dominique Palacio, Xander Sane, Emery Silvers, Alexia Trejo, and Lucas Wiley
goLEAD is part of Youth United, United Way’s year-round youth engagement program that helps young people give back and lead with purpose. The 2025 program was made possible by generous support from the Community Foundation of Northwest Georgia and the Kiwanis Club of Dalton.
Interested in getting involved with Youth United? Contact Hayley Poillucci at 706-529-1591 or Jessica Carnes at 706-529-1583, or visit www.ourunitedway.org/youth-united. Follow United Way of Northwest Georgia on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok for more student spotlights and upcoming volunteer opportunities.
United is the Way!
Amanda Burt is the President of United Way of Northwest Georgia.
The mission of United Way is Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.