More than 250 teens came together at the Sheraton Hotel in Windsor Locks August 18-23 for “B’yachad RLTI” – the convention of the Connecticut Valley Region BBYO’s Regional Leadership Training Institute. The Connecticut Valley Region (CVR) was joined by four other regions — Manhattan, Westchester, Big Apple, and New England – who shared resources and together learned successful leadership techniques.

CVR board members arrived a few days early to learn how to work together as a team from firefighters at the Connecticut Fire Academy, which is based in Windsor – after all, firefighters represent the ultimate team, relying on one another to achieve one common goal. Teens maneuvered through the fire academy’s obstacle course and watched several demonstrations staged by a group of teen fire cadets.

In addition to leadership training, sessions at the convention focused on topics such as public speaking, how to face difficult decisions, navigating the college admissions process, yoga and meditation. Teens were also treated to a session with an entrepreneur who appeared on the TV show Shark Tank. And, one of the most engaging sessions was led by philanthropist Henry Zachs who shared his passion for and commitment to the Jewish community, and talked to the teens about the importance of giving time and/or money to Jewish causes.

The weekend marked the opening of BBYO’s new year of activities – getting the teens ready, willing and able to hit the ground running. For more information about BBYO, contact Josh Cohen, Area Field Director, at JCohen@bbyo.org.