Leadership Programs
Adult Program
Each year, approximately 35 people are accepted into the Leadership Sarasota County program. Participants are selected on their own merits through a highly competitive admissions process that includes a thorough application as well as a personal interview. No two participants share identical backgrounds, but all are expected to share three basic characteristics: A proven commitment to leadership and community service, a genuine interest in improving the conditions of our community and a desire to fully engage in both the program and the community after graduation.
The Adult Program is the flagship program of Leadership Sarasota County. Based on the premise that well-informed citizens make the best leaders, the program is designed to expose community leaders and potential leaders to the many different aspects of Sarasota County; educating them about the county's assets, opportunities, and challenges. Class members have opportunities throughout the year to gain or improve upon existing leadership skills. They will also learn where and how they can get involved to help improve the community.
Most graduates of the Leadership Sarasota County adult program refer to it as one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences of their adult careers and lives. Though the program is designed as a community training and leadership program, alumni regularly attest to the fact that the Leadership experience has a significant positive impact on their careers and personal lives as well.
Leadership Days are the core of the ten-month program. Each Leadership class meets one full Friday per month to learn about one key element of the community, from the environment to human services, the arts to education. In addition to Leadership Days, there are usually a few additional meetings, as well as retreats that open and close each program. The retreats emphasize leadership and management skills, as well as team-building.
Cost
Program tuition is $1100, which includes all transportation, meals and materials. Tuition is customarily paid by the participant's employer or sponsoring organization. However, no qualified person is ever denied access to this important program. Scholarship assistance may be available for applicants who demonstrate that they cannot participate without financial aid.
Time Commitment
Classes begin in September and conclude in June. Participants spend eight full Leadership Days (one Friday a month), plus two weekends during this time frame learning about the community, their classmates and themselves. Because the program goals are only achieved when class members actively participate, full attendance is expected of every participant.
"Launching the 22nd year of Leadership Sarasota on September 21, "Club 21" was an evening of reflection on the successful program of the past and a look at what the program has become today. Leadership Sarasota County extends a warm thank you to our "One Ask" sponsors including Richardson Kleiber Walter, The Richardson Group - our top sponsor! Joining them are Michael Saunders & Company; Williams, Parker, Harrison, Dietz & Getzen; Northern Trust; Willis A. Smith Construction, Inc. and Schroeder-Manatee Ranch. Thank you for your support!"
Click here to download an application
Youth Program
The Youth Program is a mini-version of the Adult Program. It's a county-wide program designed to nurture and develop positive leadership qualities. It's about Sarasota County and how young people can make it a better place. It's work and it's fun. It's learning about the community!
Goals
- Identify high school students who are leaders or have demonstrated leadership potential.
- Give young people the knowledge, tools and contacts to create successful leaders.
- Instill and nurture a sense of social responsibility in our youth.
- Offer a forum for young leaders to express their needs, goals and opinions.
- Explore the diverse facets of Sarasota's social affairs, government and business.
- Provide participants a chance to serve their community.
- Present young leaders with a rewarding and fun experience.
L2 Masters Program
Most Leadership Sarasota County alumni graduate from the program wanting more. In 2006, Leadership Sarasota County developed a Masters Program called L2. Designed for advanced skills development, the program is available only to graduates of an initial Leadership program.
For more information, contact Barbara Hines at Leadership Sarasota County by calling (941) 556-4027 or email bhines@sarasotachamber.com.
Alumni Program
The goal of the Alumni Program is to keep Leadership graduates connected to one another, the community and the Leadership program. Among the Alumni Program offerings are Leadership Alumni luncheons featuring provocative speakers designed to expand each attendee's knowledge and personal and professional growth. The program also provides additional opportunities for alumni to stay engaged in the community and contribute to the development of future leaders.
The Leadership program is making a special effort to further develop and grow its alumni program, keeping Sarasota leaders connected.
For more information, contact Barbara Hines at Leadership Sarasota County by calling (941) 556-4027 or email bhines@sarasotachamber.com.
Leadership Engagement Training
Are you a talented professional serving on or seeking service on a nonprofit's board of directors? This unique nonprofit board leadership program was developed with you in mind.
Presented by a BoardSource certified trainer, this fast paced, interactive workshop will form a comprehensive framework for your current or future board leadership position.
What you learn: Ten basic responsibilities, financial & legal matters, board structure & practice, fundraising fundamentals, planning & evaluation techniques, governance & leadership, local opportunities.
The Nonprofit Resource Center provides affordable and quality education and resources to help strengthen nonprofit organizations as they pursue excellence in meeting their missions.
Leadership Engagement Training is funded by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County with additional support provided by Leadership Sarasota County and The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Group.
For further information, contact Nicole Martin at nicole@cfsarasota.org.
