What are the components of the LWC program?
LWC is an eight-month program consisting of six half day programs (October through March), a two-day retreat (September) and an evening Orientation (September) and evening Celebration (April). The program offers sessions delivered by experienced facilitators, with topics and hands-on experience customized to Whitley County . Sessions include lively panel discussions, leadership training exercises, charismatic speakers, group interaction, on-site visits and individual/group projects designed to enhance the community. Other program requirements include serving as an intern on a non-profit board and participating in one of three group projects. Programs are held at appropriate sites throughout Whitley County to provide knowledge of the physical and institutional aspects of the community.
What are the benefits to me as an individual and to my employer/organization as a participant?
As an individual, you will experience enhanced networking with a diverse group of individuals who live or work in Whitley County, realize the opportunities for involvement in your community, garner additional leadership skills applicable for both home and the workplace, and receive possible continuing education credit (if approved by your certification board). Employers/organizations can benefit through a person's enrollment in LWC by an individual learning and practicing enhanced leadership skills, developing people skills further that are directly applicable in the workplace, and increasing visibility and community outreach for your business or group.
Who can participate in LWC?
Individuals who have a sincere interest in community leadership, who want to increase or enhance their own level of involvement and who desire to broaden their scope of knowledge beyond a particular area of expertise are encouraged to apply. Applicants must live or work in Whitley County . It is mandatory that applicants have the support and commitment of their business or organization and they must possess the personal commitment to participate in the scheduled class sessions and activities. On the 3 rd Thursday of the months of October through March, sessions will be held at various locations throughout the county. Each session begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. and will conclude by 1:00 p.m. Attendance at all sessions is expected. No more than two sessions may be missed in order to graduate from the program. Full retreat attendance is mandatory.
The cost for LWC is $600.00 and is to be paid by participants or their sponsors by the end of October. A limited number of partial scholarships are available. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to underwrite the expense of an individual. Participants qualifying for scholarship assistance will be notified prior to the orientation in September. An invoice for tuition will be included in your participant folder. Tuition covers all expenses for the orientation, retreat, sessions, meals, and miscellaneous supplies.
What are the session dates and topics?
Orientation and retreat dates and topics vary each year. Regular session dates (Oct – March) are the third Thursday of each month. The Celebration is usually the third Thursday evening of April. Please click on the Program Calendar icon on the home page or contact the Program Director for more information.
When will I be notified of my possible
acceptance in the program?
As soon as you submit your application, please mark the program dates on your calendar. Applications must be received no later than the last Saturday in June. Letters of acceptance of regret will be sent in early August. It is anticipated that more applications will be received than there are spaces available in the class, in which case a selection committee will select program candidates. Class size is limited to 25. Candidates not accepted will be strongly encouraged to reapply in future years. Applicants will be considered using the following criteria (1) Ability and desire to assume or continue leadership responsibility in the community (2) Personal commitment to on-going community service (3) Willingness to commit to the program and related activities.
How do I obtain an application? Simply complete and submit an application electronically from this site or contact the LWC Program Director.
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