Youth Leadership

Inspire the Next Generation

Empower the Next Generation Through Connecting to the Power of Place

Leadership begins with self-awareness and connection—to oneself, to others, and to the places we call home.

My Sense of Place and Story Framework equips young leaders with the tools to discover their voice, express their values, and lead with confidence and creativity.

Ideal for :
Youth leadership initiatives, community-based organizations, and funded educational programs seeking an engaging approach to leadership development. Also designed for schools, parks, museums, and nature centers looking to foster deeper connections between people and place.

Inspiring Purpose

Strong leaders know who they are and what they stand for. My programs help youth develop this awareness by:

  • Exploring their unique sense of place and identity that comes from place connections

  • Building confidence in expressing their stories and values

  • Cultivating empathy and meaningful connections with others

  • Inspiring action and stewardship through storytelling and creativity.

In a time of social and environmental change, youth today need to find a sense of belonging and feel connected to who and where they are.

Wherever they live, it is helpful to feel a deep connection to who and where they are. It helps to see what they care about and how they can make a difference in the world.

My immersive programs guide them through a transformational process of creative reflection, self-expression, and hands-on learning. Participants gain the confidence and tools to create lasting change in their communities and beyond.

Helping youth:

  • Discover Their Story – Through creative writing, storytelling, and public speaking, participants learn to express who they are and what matters to them.

  • Build Meaningful Connections – Through teamwork and interactive activities, they form bonds with peers, mentors, and the places they explore.

  • Awaken a Sense of Stewardship – By deepening their awareness of history and nature, participants develop a personal stake in caring for their environment.

  • Step Into Leadership – Equipped with confidence, communication skills, and a renewed sense of purpose, they leave inspired to make a difference.

Why work with me?

I am an award-winning songwriter, storyteller, and educator with decades of experience leading transformative programs that help people connect to places, themselves and each other. I have worked extensively with community organizations, the National Park Service, museums, and academic institutions, and have a depth of experience helping youth find their voices, express themselves authentically, and become confident leaders.

My approach blends creative storytelling with experiential learning, fostering personal reflection and connection. Through the power of place, I help empower youth to explore their values and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Past Collaborations & Partners

Erica has inspired youth across the country through partnerships with organizations such as:

  • AmeriCorps (Vermont State Parks)

  • Appalachian Trail Conservancy – Next Gen Gathering (Mount Greylock, MA)

  • Teacher-Ranger-Teachers Program (Everglades National Park)

  • World Wide Walden Youth Summit (The Walden Woods Project)

  • Wyoming Youth Congress on Children and Nature (Jackson, WY)

  • Youth Conservation Corps (Trustees of the Reservation)

  • Young Writers & Artists Festival (Hathaway Brown School)

  • Youth Leadership Academy (New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park)

Let’s Work Together

  • Contact Erica to discuss your group’s needs and goals.

  • Choose the best program format for your organization.

  • Schedule your event and start empowering your youth leaders today!

  • Reach out so we can find a good time to set up a call or Zoom, or book a slot on my calendar.