Y Lakeland
The LEDC officially launched www.ylakeland.com in 2007. Y Lakeland is our first step at attempting to connect high school and college students to what is happening in Lakeland and the opportunities our community offers beyond school.

Starting in September, 2007, Florida Southern College, Southeastern University and University of South Florida Lakeland students began receiving a monthly e-newsletter highlighting local activities, new restaurants, internship and job opportunities. E-newsletters also spotlight alumni from these schools who stay and work in Lakeland.

Y Lakeland also presents Lakeland to students from a student’s perspective including where to eat, shop, play and work. In addition, Y Lakeland has an active blog highlighting local events and hot topics.

Y Lakeland Summer Leadership Program
Y Lakeland launched an 8-week (June-July) Summer Leadership Program for interns and new hires beginning in the Summer, 2008. The LEDC staff ran this Pilot program which included 45 participants from 17 local companies.

Interns and new hires participated in eight half-day events including, but not limited to, opening team building event, local tours including Hollis Gardens, Polk Museum, Polk Theatre, Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture, attending a Flying Tigers Game, Cypress Gardens, wakeboarding, BBQ in a City Park, closing awards/testimonial lunch with sponsors, etc.