DEARBORN, Mich. – Melissa Charbonneau, a member of the University of Michigan-Dearborn softball team, recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the American Red Cross Collegiate Leadership Program.

The program provides student-athletes with the opportunity to develop leadership skills and inspire a new generation of volunteers by organizing blood drives for their classmates and community. Charbonneau's experience began with training, mentoring and networking during a two-week internship at Red Cross headquarters in Washington.

"This program is beyond anything I have ever experienced," Charbonneau said. "It is such an amazing opportunity to gain valuable information not just about the Red Cross, but also about preparing for your career path after graduation. Every single day here I am inspired more and more to give back to my community and how I will apply leadership qualities into any situation. I can't wait to get back in the fall and make a difference in our campus community."

The internship provides participating students like Charbonneau a sophomore on the sophomore team, the chance to receive coaching from senior Red Cross leadership. This opportunity can help participants gain life-long skills that can have an impact on their campus and throughout their future careers. She will return to campus to encourage fellow students to join in the mission to help save lives through blood donation.

Charbonneau also received a $2,000 scholarship for participating in the program. The program runs from June 2-15.