Intellect over emotion is key to creating change. One can be heard with a rant or rave, but to be listened to requires a purposeful and informed message.
That’s the greatest lesson Tyra Hughes learned as a participant of the Family Leadership Training Institute (FLTI). Since completing the family civics program, Hughes has dived headfirst into being an advocate for change. She serves as an AmeriCorps member through the Regional Substance Abuse Prevention Partners program, the Montelores Early Childhood Council and the Montezuma-Cortez school accountability program.
“I like collaborating with folks on creating positive outcomes in our community,” said the mother of two.
Hughes said FLTI revitalized her confidence, and strengthened her knowledge of various local, state and federal agencies. She hopes the newest FLTI class walks away with the awareness that they too can create positive outcomes for children and families in the community.
“I recommend FLTI, because everyone’s voice is important,” Hughes said. “Our voices can influence the decisions that are being made.”
FLTI members spend more than 120 hours to develop skills needed to become effective leaders in the community. The curriculum of the 20-week program integrates personal and child development, leadership training, civic literacy and civic participation skills. The curriculum includes four components: an initial retreat, two 10-week sessions that focus on knowledge about the change process, skill building and tools of civic engagement.
Hughes is one of 40 graduates of the FLTI program from Dolores and Montezuma counties over the past four years.
Sixteen others recently enrolled in the program for 2014. They include Shannon Jones, Geof Byerly, Amanda Saunders, Michelle Battle, Maria Fox, Donna Kennell, Kristen Roberts, Sybil Jaslowsli, Danna Nofsinger, Christine Winkler, Stephanie Wells, Crystal Peterson and Chelsea Philpott, all of Cortez; Tiffany Small of Mancos; Monica Montgomery of Egnar; Mandy Kaime of Lewis; and Catrina Prarie of Dolores.
tbaker@cortezjournal.com
