Board approves $20,000 United Way subaward to fund youth leadership programming tied to CCC expansion

The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $20,000 community subaward agreement to United Way of Northern Arizona to support a leadership development summit and a six‑session follow‑up series for students across Coconino County.

Liz Archuleta, the United Way’s president and CEO, told the board the funding—sourced from the Arizona Public Service Community Leadership Fund—will support a summit for roughly 100–150 youth and a deeper six‑workshop track for about 30 students who will work on community projects. Archuleta said the program targets transition points (upper elementary to middle school and first‑semester freshmen), prioritizes students who have had fewer leadership opportunities, and partners with principals and counselors for selection rather than a formal application process.

Board members thanked United Way and noted the program complements the recent community college expansion approved by voters. Supervisor Begay offered to assist with outreach efforts to ensure broad school participation.

The board moved and seconded the authorization to enter the subaward agreement and voted unanimously to approve it.