By Haley Cote

University of Mississippi Intern

The University of Mississippi Bonner Leaders Program is a four-year cohort model and student leadership program that develops college students into community-minded leaders. It has partnerships with 15 non-profit entities in the Lafayette-Oxford area including the LOU-Barksdale Boys & Girls Club.

The program’s mission is “access to education, opportunity to serve.” And with over forty students in the program, they work to serve these local organizations and eventually create capstone projects designed to alleviate specific community challenges. The Boys & Girls Club serves as one of the original partners for the program.

Each year, three to four Bonner students work as volunteers at the Club, aiding in tutoring and after-school care. Additionally, these students work to benefit any of the Club’s needs and establish positive relationships with staff.

Last year, some Bonner students who worked at the Club took it upon themselves to organize a clothing drive for the kids at the Boys & Girls Club. They recognized a need and incited action, leaving a positive impact on the organization.

William Teer, Director of the Bonner Leaders Program says, “Going into our fourth year with 15 community partners and 42 students with over 1,000 hours of commitment, it’s really exciting to see the impact these partnerships have on the community.”

For more information: Check out @bgcoflou on Instagram.