Host Janet Michael sits down with Missy Spielman to discuss the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber's Arising Leadership Program (ALP) — a free, two-week summer program designed to expose local high schoolers to career opportunities right in their own backyard.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• What the Arising Leadership Program is and how it got started
• How the ALP differs from the Chamber's Community Leadership Program (CLP)
• Why exposing students to local industries matters — "If you can't see it, you can't be it"
• What industries students will explore: manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, government & public safety, nonprofit, and media
• How the program addresses common misconceptions about careers
• What the graduation ceremony looks like and why it matters
• How businesses and individuals can become sponsors

Program Details

• Who: Rising juniors and seniors in high school (public, private, or homeschooled)
• Where: Frederick County, Clarke County, and Winchester, VA
• When: Two weeks in June, starting around June 8 — six full days of programming
• Cost: Free to students
• Group size: Up to 20 students
• Transportation: Provided throughout the day once students arrive at the central drop-off location

How to Apply or Get Involved

• Website: regionalchamber.biz → Arising Leadership Program page
• Phone: (540) 662-4118, ext. 14
• Email: mspielman@regionalchamber.biz
• Sponsorships: Starting at $500 — contact Missy directly