A few years ago, the Family Community Leadership (FCL) State Board decided that a new, more localized training approach was needed. In response, three regional training programs emerged from the original FCL training design. This new approach was chosen because current and past participants of the program said leadership training was needed that was convenient, timely, affordable, and more accessible.
As local planning partners helped to determine the content and format for delivery, the new programs became more relevant, convenient and timely. Housing costs were eliminated, thus each program became more affordable. Participation in the program increased 200% the first year.
This new program delivery mode also gave Cooperative Extension the opportunity to partner with a variety of agencies including: Tri-State Memorial Hospital, Clarkston; Garfield and Columbia County Health Districts; Longview Area Chamber of Commerce; and a long list of financial sponsors for the Leadership Academy program in Cowlitz County.
The purpose of each program is to identify, prepare, and energize potential and emerging leaders. Cowlitz’s Leadership Academy’s goal is “creating a pool of dedicated individuals ready to take their place in leadership positions.” In Grays Harbor, Mason and Thurston counties the challenge to new leaders is, “Don’t just be a Better Leader, Be a Great Leader.”
All the new programs have tailored the training curriculum to meet the needs of their regions. The additions in Leadership Academy are sessions on the regional economy, local government, community health, law and justice, and quality of life in the Lower Columbia region. Leadership Advancement in Grays Harbor, Mason and Thurston counties added a session on balancing work, home and family. The Leadership Enhancement and Development (LEAD) program in Asotin, Garfield, Columbia and Whitman counties added ethics and new communication technologies as new topics.
Participants in all these program graduate with new skills in communicating, listening, resolving conflicts, teaming with others, problem solving, facilitating discussions, and a clearer understanding of their own leadership styles and abilities. One participant said this training “gave me lots of practical information and tools that I can apply in all facets of my life, and it caused me to look at leadership in a new light.” For others, the important elements were increased networking, confidence, growth in skills, empowerment, learning to speak to groups, and learning how to handle difficult situations. For all participants it is an opportunity to stretch out of the comfort zone and express their talents while learning how to work more effectively with families and communities.
Just about the time we think interest is declining for leadership development training, a new wave of community leaders emerge and find they need an infusion of new skills and abilities. Cooperative Extension is strategically positioned to provide this type of training.
