Community Health Awareness Network

Empowering tomorrow’s Leaders, today. 🎤
Today, our CHANGE-Makers immersed themselves in a day dedicated to developing the qualities of a leader under the outstanding facilitation of Dr. Sheri-ann McLean of McLean coaching and consulting.

Through engaging activities focused on words versus actions, finding common ground, reflecting on the visit to the Community Harvest Project and creating a presentation about the importance of volunteering, role-playing, effective communication, public
speaking, teamwork, and leadership presentations, our young leaders were challenged to think critically, communicate with confidence, and lead with purpose. Every exercise reinforced an important lesson: leadership is not defined by a title, it is demonstrated through integrity, service, collaboration, empathy, and the ability to inspire others.

The reflection on our visit to the Community Harvest Project reminded participants that leadership is rooted in giving back. They explored how volunteerism strengthens communities and how even small acts of service can create meaningful and lasting change.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Sheri-Ann McLean for investing her time, expertise, and passion in developing our future leaders. As our CHANGE-Makers continue their leadership journey, they are building the confidence, communication skills, and character needed to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact in their schools, neighborhoods, and beyond.

The Skanska Experience – Part 2 👷🏾‍♀️🏗️✈️

Some lessons simply can't be taught in a classroom—they have to be experienced.

Our CHANGE-makers Summer Youth Leadership Program participants traded their everyday clothes for personal protective equipment, laced up their boots, and stepped into the role of construction professionals for an unforgettable boots-on-the-ground experience with Skanska.

From the moment they geared up with safety vests, hard hats, and protective equipment, our youth were immersed in the world of construction and infrastructure. They didn't just hear about the work—they experienced it.

The highlight of the day was an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the **Terminal A construction site at Boston Logan International Airport**. Walking through an active construction site alongside Skanska professionals, our participants witnessed firsthand the planning, precision, teamwork, and innovation required to deliver one of the region's most significant infrastructure projects.

Every step through the site sparked curiosity and meaningful conversations. They learned how architects, engineers, project managers, skilled tradespeople, and safety professionals work together to transform a vision into reality. They asked thoughtful questions, explored career opportunities, and saw that the possibilities for their future are limitless.

This wasn't just a field trip—it was an opportunity to see leadership, collaboration, and excellence in action. Experiences like these broaden horizons, inspire ambition, and remind our youth that they belong in every space where communities are being built and the future is being shaped.

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible team at **Skanska** for opening your doors, investing in our youth, and creating an experience they will never forget. Your commitment to mentoring the next generation is helping build not only remarkable structures, but remarkable leaders.

At Community Health Awareness Network Grows Equity (CHANGE), we remain committed to exposing our young people to transformative experiences that inspire them to dream boldly, lead confidently, and build stronger communities.

**Empowering tomorrow's leaders today.**