[CHARLOTTE, NC | September 16, 2015]  Hectic schedules, body image, relationships and career decisions are common stressors that affect teenagers today. In partnership with Riley's Catch and Elevation Church, YMCA Camp Thunderbird will offer its second Life of Impact Leadership Experience, a high-energy, outdoor adventure weekend designed to help teens navigate challenges and develop skills to lead healthy, purposeful lives.

The Life of Impact Leadership Experience will take place October 2 – 4 on the shores of Lake Wylie at YMCA Camp Thunderbird. Unlike youth leadership retreats that are classroom-based, teens will be encouraged to hone their leadership skills during zip lines, archery, riflery, creative arts and other team-building adventures. The weekend experience leverages outdoor exploration to help teens develop a passion for service, self-confidence, integrity, team work and critical-thinking skills in a fun, faith-based and welcoming environment. The Y expects a diverse group of 300 students from across the region.

The weekend is about helping teens experience their personal best in a variety of circumstances,” says YMCA Camp Thunderbird Executive Director Jill Moore. “Our goal is to empower teens with the lifelong skills they need to make healthy, values-based choices. Those skills are learned by doing.  We want students to walk away from this experience knowing that they are valuable, talented and resourceful.”

The weekend's featured event is The Riley's Cup, a world-class bass fishing tournament. Created by Riley's Catch and sponsored by Scott Clark Toyota and Clifton Larson Allen, LLP, the excursion will be captained by some of the most talented collegiate anglers in the country including  two-time Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Champions, the “UNC Charlotte Bass Rats,” “East Carolina Bass Fishing Team,” and “NC State Bass Pack,” three-time winners of the coveted national title, as well as teams from Wake Forest University, University of South Carolina and Clemson University. Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Britt Myers will also speak before the Riley's Cup launch.

“Getting students into the outdoors promotes healthy lifestyles while creating opportunities to learn about the environment and conservation,” states Rod Goodall, Executive Director of Riley's Catch.

To register a student for the Life of Impact Leadership Experience visit www.lifeofimpact.me. The cost of the Life of Impact Leadership Experience is $175 per person and includes overnight cabin accommodations, meals, activities and fishing tournament. Financial assistance is available. YMCA Camp Thunderbird is located at 1 Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, SC 29710.