It’s hard to believe that we’ve just completed our sixth annual Make a Difference conference.  Tenth and eleventh grade high school students from all over Central Pennsylvania were greeted by thunderous applause and the cheering of the college-aged Near Peers who anxiously awaited their arrival. 

Over the course of the four days, friendships, teamwork, and collaboration were just a part of their experience.  The teams were busy creating, planning, developing, and designing projects to help better their communities and schools.  It was an awesome sight and all took place at Lock Haven University on June 19-22, 2003.

This year, we had 181 high school students from 34 high schools who came together to learn about leadership, team building, community awareness, and community service.  Standing out in their burgundy shirts to greet the high school students, better known as Pioneers, were 31 college-aged Near Peer facilitators and 10 Near Peer Interns.   And, thanks to the generosity of over 90 contributors, who varied from individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the Central Pennsylvania region, Make a Difference participants are going home to spread the word to improve their schools and communities.