PRESCOTT, AZ (JANUARY 9, 2012) – Prescott Area Youth Leadership (PAYL) is now accepting applications for its youth leadership skills building program. "Last year's academy attracted an outstanding group of students from the region's public, charter, and private schools," said Kim Kapin, program spokesman.

Graduates of the 2010-2011 program include past Youth Leaders of the Year, Jennifer Leja and Brionna Friis-Pettitt and broadcast journalism student Paige Brown who is currently attending the prestigious Cronkite School at ASU. "They were all exceptional in their own way—involvement in charitable causes, advanced academics, and sports. We're extremely proud of every participant and look forward to working with our 2012 group," added Kapin.

"The classes taught me so much," said Brown. "The guest speakers brought different ideas around how we can be outstanding leaders. The skills I learned can be used in all situations and I believe I'm a better leader today because of PAYL."

The PAYL Academy is an accelerated five-week program commencing with a retreat on March 31 and spanning four consecutive Tuesday evenings from 6-8 pm. "The academy is geared to accommodate our student's busy lives," explained Kapin. "The condensed curriculum meets PAYL's ultimate goal which is to build a foundation for young people to continue developing effective leadership skills—and we underline the adjective, effective."

Program topics cover areas like self-understanding, listening, team building and team work, conflict resolution, effective project planning, and public speaking, to name a few.

"The list of PAL alumni and community leaders that have stepped up to participate in PAL and PAYL activities is incredible," added Kapin. "Founder Ron Barnes has worked with CEO's from many Fortune 500 companies over the years and gets right in there with our young people. " Kapin also lists former state Representative Lucy Mason, Secretary of State Ken Bennett, and all regional Chamber of Commerce CEO's--Dave Maurer, Ab Jackson, and Marnie Uhl as active players in the organization."

Tuition for the PAYL Academy is $20.00 for applications received prior to February 15, 2012. From February 16th to the March 2, 2012 deadline, tuition is $25.00. Tuition includes the cost of the retreat, course materials, commencement program, and certificate of completion. Scholarships are available to those unable to meet the program's cost.

"PAYL is looking for twelve participants who are motivated to be better leaders and better people that will eventually use those attributes to serve their communities," emphasized Kapin. "We hope parents, teachers, and counselors realize what a great opportunity this is for Yavapai County's youth. Their referrals can make a profound difference in a young person's future."

For more information and on-line application, visit: www.prescottarealeadership.org or call 928-308-4460.