Empower the Next Generation
through Story, Connection, and Place

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

Erica Wheeler’s 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.

Her program is ideal for youth leadership initiatives, community-based organizations, and grant-funded educational programs seeking an engaging approach to leadership development. It is 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. Erica’s programs help youth develop this awareness by:

• Exploring their unique sense of place and identity

• Building confidence in expressing their stories and values

• Cultivating empathy and meaningful connections with others

• Inspiring action and stewardship through storytelling and creativity

Story to Stewardship

In a time of ongoing social and environmental change, youth need to have 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, and see how they can make a difference in the world.

Erica’s immersive program guides youth 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 to:

• 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.

Each program is customized to fit the needs of schools, organizations, and community groups, ensuring a relevant and impactful experience for every participant.

Why Work With Erica and Sense of Place Consulting?

Erica Wheeler is an award-winning songwriter, storyteller, and educator with decades of experience leading transformative youth leadership programs. She has worked extensively with community organizations, the National Park Service, museums, and academic institutions, helping youth find their voices, express themselves authentically, and become confident leaders.

Her approach blends creative storytelling with experiential learning, fostering personal reflection and connection. Through the power of place, she empowers 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)

Bring Erica to Your Organization

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

2. Choose the best program format for your organization.

3. Schedule your event and start empowering your youth leaders today!

Give the next generation the tools to connect, express, and lead with purpose.

Format Options

Erica offers flexible formats to meet the needs of schools, organizations, and youth programs:

• Introductory Sessions & Seminars (60–90 minutes) – Engaging talks introducing the principles of place-based learning and storytelling.

• Half-Day Workshops (3.5 hours) – Interactive sessions cultivating skills in storytelling, place-based teaching, and creative thinking.

• Full or Multi-Day Residencies – Includes lessons, workshops, and one-on-one mentoring to create collaborative projects such as essays, digital stories, music, or visual art.

• Performances – Engaging concerts and storytelling sessions tailored for academic and community audiences.