Charles City Leadership Development Program seeking next class

To The Press

Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Charles City Leadership Development program, which is designed to educate, encourage and empower participants to unlock their leadership potential in their personal lives, at work and in the community.

The program is designed to teach participants how they can make a difference, both big and small, as well as work with and influence others.

This program, spearheaded by the Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce, also provides an opportunity to become more familiar with and engaged in the community, what it has to offer, what resources are available, how things work and why.

It offers a behind-the-scenes look at local businesses, non-profit organizations and governmental entities, as well as a chance to hear from and interact with panel discussions featuring local leaders and organization representatives.

“I learned so much about Charles City and feel much more connected to this community because of this program,” said Patrick Nyberg, one of 14 graduates of the 2023 Leadership program.

Added fellow graduate Jill Whitesell, “The Leadership program helped me, as someone new to working in Charles City, learn what all Charles City has to offer, helped develop a sense of history and pride in the city, helped learn what services are offered and helped identify where I could help.”

“I appreciate everything the program has done in providing me the tools to grow in leadership ability, as well as knowledge on local resources I did not previously know about,” said graduate Michael Drewelow.

“This program is an excellent way to provide leadership skills to those trying to grow into a leadership position, as well as enhance the skill for those who are already in a position of leadership. I highly recommend it for anyone who may be interested,” Drewelow said.

Program participants will meet one day a month, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., for nine months starting in September, and concluding with graduation in May.

Enrollment will be determined by the number of sponsorships and scholarships available, with the $500 fee either covered by a business or organization sponsoring an employee or member, or else sponsoring a scholarship for someone in the community to go through the program.

Anyone is eligible to apply, with last year’s class featuring a wide range of ages and professions. Participants will have an attendance requirement, as well as need to complete a set number of hours of community service in order to graduate the program.

Sessions will be held at different locations around town, include bus and walking tours, a wide variety of guest speakers and panelists, as well as lunch and snacks provided.

The curriculum was put together in collaboration with Floyd County Extension, NIACC, the Charles City Community School District, local employers and best practices gleaned from other community leadership programs.

“This class was great,” remarked graduate Amanda Zett. “I feel it was equally focused on the community as well as leadership. I left each class going home to tell my husband and my employer/con-workers the next day.”

To apply for the 2024 Leadership program, or for a business or organization to sponsor someone, contact the Chamber office at (641) 228-4234 or email mark@charlescitychamber.com.

The application deadline is Aug. 23rd, and the class will be limited to the first 20 participants.