My Key Leader Experience
by Taylor Binnix

My involvement in the Key Leader program really changed my life, and my perspective on leadership. I have attended Key Leader twice - I was a student participant at Camp Letts in October, 2007, and a student facilitator at Arlington Echo in April, 2008. (Pictured right, I'm in the center - putting myself "in the hands" of fellow participants.)

When I attended Key Leader in October, 2007, I learned the five key principles of service leadership that are the basis of this program: personal integrity, personal growth, respect, building community and the pursuit of excellence. This program was lead by a professional facilitator, Patrick Mauer, who taught me the importance of implementing these principles through my leadership of projects and in working within organizations. While I have sought to maintain a sense of personal integrity, personal growth had not previously been a priority of mine in my leadership of activities. However, Key Leader taught me the value of staying true to yourself in order to benefit the other members of your group. Additionally, I've always known that respect is important, but Patrick showed me how to respect in a manner that sets an example for others. I was required to take time to evaluate my abilities in a Personal Code of Conduct so that I can focus on demonstrating the values that I do respect.

I also liked the inspiring movie, "The Collector of Bedford Street", because it taught me the true worth of building community. Larry's story demonstrated how to be the source of motivation for change in a community. What I learned from him about generosity, sincerity, and love is invaluable. Regarding the pursuit of excellence, I became aware of how, in addition to doing my best in everything I pursue, I need to encourage others to strive to reach their potential as well.

Participating in the Key Leader program as a student facilitator rather than a student participant gave me experience using the five Key Leader principles. I was able to witness the change in my leadership abilities during the weekend, as I reflected on, relearned and reevaluated my techniques while having the chance to immediately put them into practice. I also met peers of mine who strive to excel in the areas of service and leadership; I hope that I was able to motivate them to improve their skills, just as my student facilitator had for me in October.

Learning and understanding the five key principles of service leadership has really given me insight into how I can better myself as a leader among my peers. I really appreciate the time I spent at Key Leader because it taught me how to be the best I can be. I have striven to uphold the five principles as I seek to find ways to implement them each and every day.

I would encourage all Kiwanis Clubs to seek young people in their communities who have leadership potential, and encourage them to attend the next Key Leader program - I believe they will find it as inspiring and beneficial as I did!

I want to thank the Kiwanis Club of Severna Park for their sponsorship that provided me this fantastic opportunity to attend the Key Leader program both as a student and then as a student facilitator.