This program is offered for $100 to people who are interested in making a difference in their communities and willing to commit to attending all 12 sessions. Each session is 2½ hours long and includes a light meal. Sessions take place on one evening per week from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Locations will vary from week to week.
Session 1: Come As You Are
- Program orientation
- Value of grassroots participation
- Diversity and team building
- Self-awareness and empowerment
Session 2: Planning For Your Passion
- Identifying your passion and where to make your community contribution
- Setting goals, exploring values and identifying personal strengths
- Importance of a vision
Session 3: Team Up
- Collaborative leadership
- Phases of group dynamics
- Explore power and trust
Session 4: Understanding Diversity
- Deeper understanding of diversity
- Social perpetuation of injustice
- Methods to combat prejudice and institutionalize injustice
Session 5: Embracing Diversity
- Building relationships for an inclusive community
- Identifying and respecting uniqueness
- The importance of effective communication
Session 6: All Aboard: The Legalities
- How nonprofits work
- Understanding legal standards board members must follow
- Roles and responsibilities for board members
Session 7: All Aboard: The Practicalities
- How to be an effective board member
- How to review budgets and financial reports
- Preparing to join a board
Session 8: Meeting Manners and Matters
- How to plan and conduct meetings
- Basics of parliamentary procedure as explained in Robert's Rules of Order
- Understanding the importance of meeting decorum
Session 9: Conflict as Opportunity
- Understanding conflict
- Anger management
- Process for resolving conflict
Session 10: Speak Up, Speak Out
- Tips to speak effectively and persuasively
- Types of speeches
- Impromptu public speaking
Session 11: Resumé Writing & Social Networking
- Writing a resumé
- Social networking for career advancement
Session 12: Stepping Out
- Celebrate your learning experience
- Make a commitment to public service and leadership