NATCHEZ— This year, 10-year-old Bradly Richardson is planning to celebrate America’s birthday at a conference in Washington, D.C.

He’ll be there as part of the People to People Leadership Ambassador Program.

The program takes place July 1-7 and aims to teach students about leadership skills at delegate conferences.

After the conferences, participants are taken to see historical sites and monuments.

It’s an exciting prospect for Richardson, who has never been to the nation’s capital.

“Throughout the whole week, we’re just going to learn and have fun,” Richardson said.

Richardson wasn’t expecting to get a chance to go D.C. this year, but his leadership skills and responsibility got him noticed inside and outside of the classroom.

At Community Chapel Church of God, Pastor Bob Swilley said Richardson helps out with the younger kids, including his younger siblings, Reiley Richardson, 4, Zacary Richardson, 7, and Kaylee Richardson, 8.

“He’s helpful around the church with other kids,” Swilley said. “He’s just really mature for his age and just a good citizen.”

At Gilmer McLaurin Elementary School, his leadership qualities caught the attention of his 5th grade teacher, Shawanna Hawkins.

One day in Hawkins’ class, Richardson received a surprise.

“She called me to her desk and she told me, would you like to go to Washington D.C.?” Richardson said.

Hawkins nominated a total of 10 students, and Richardson was one of them. When he arrived home that day, he told his mother, Trisha Lambert.

“I was shocked,” Lambert said. “I thought it was a really good opportunity.”

The family began fundraising the $2,500 necessary to send Richardson on the trip. They found a great deal of support at their church, which donated $300 from one of their funds to help, and assisted in two bake sales for further fundraising.

They also used other initiatives, like “Tag A Bag.” Lambert created a Facebook page where people could donate to put their names on a tag.

That tag would then be placed on Richardson’s suitcase.

“We’re hoping to fill it up,” Lambert said.

Right now, Lambert plans to accompany Richardson on his trip to D.C., and bring the rest of his siblings.

Although they talked about flying, she said it is more likely they would drive.

Richardson is fully aware of how long the drive will be.

“We’re going to have to leave early if we’re going to leave in the car,” he said.

Although the departure time might be early, it’s a trip his mother is looking forward to.

“He may not get the chance any other time and it’s an honor for him to be picked to go,” Lambert said. “And now it’s just getting there.”

Bradly’s father is Jeremy Richardson.