Erie County Legislator Michael H. Ranzenhofer (R-Clarence) announced today that Youth Leadership Erie County, a leadership development program for high school students, is seeking applicants for its Class of 2005.

"The Youth Leadership program is an effective tool for educating, training, and inspiring our community and business leaders of tomorrow," said Ranzenhofer. "Every year, many students in our community have the opportunity to find great achievement through Youth Leadership, and I'm pleased to announce the recruitment for this upcoming school year's class of leaders."

Youth Leadership Erie County consists of an overnight retreat in September, conducted by professional facilitators, which is followed by monthly day sessions on various community topics, including Criminal Justice, Diversity, the Arts and others. The program ends in May with a closing retreat and a special evening graduation celebration.

"I urge any high school students who would like to get involved with Youth Leadership Erie County to act quickly," added Ranzenhofer. "It is a great program that offers tremendous opportunity for young men and women to expand their leadership skills through a variety of experiences."

Those interested in participating in Youth Leadership can receive further information by contacting Leadership Buffalo at 849-2626 ext. 16, or by emailing chorrigan@leadershipbuffalo.org. Applications are being accepted through May 14.

Youth Leadership Erie County is free to students, thanks to funding from Leadership Buffalo, Erie County Youth Services, the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County and the Children's Foundation.