An initiative to improve Pulaski County’s leadership is being launched by the Community Foundation of Pulaski County.
Community Foundation Executive Director Wendy Rose says the new Forward Thinking Leadership Initiative was developed in response to last year’s “community conversations” process. It will involve a number of leadership programs over the next three years. A two-day community development course will be offered through Ball State University’s Indiana Communities Institute for up to 30 community members. The institute will also provide a community-led action course to help put with the creation of action plans, including up to one year of coaching support.
An annual event will be held for residents interested in running for office, and training sessions will also be available for current elected officials. Leaders of nonprofit organizations will also have a chance to take part in a training series to improve their management skills.
Amy Beechy with Project Matters, LLC, who facilitated the “community conversations,” will serve as project coordinator for the Forward Thinking Leadership Initiative. The initiative will include funding for that position, as well as for a Leadership Pulaski County coordinator.
Foundation officials told the county council and commissioners last month that the initiative is expected to cost about $180,000 over the three years, with $100,000 of that to come from a Lilly grant. Last week, the county council agreed to contribute $5,000 in Riverboat Fund money, and the county’s Community Development Commission may chip in some leftover money from its Economic Development line item. The CDC also has money that’s been contributed specifically for a Leadership Pulaski County program. Purdue Extension’s Pulaski County office is helping with the initiative, as well.
For more information or to learn how you can partner in the effort, call the Community Foundation of Pulaski County at 574-946-0906 or email info@cfopc.org.
