Program Overview

 

The Women’s Community Leadership Initiative (WCLI) is a program presented by Leadership Rapid City that educates and empowers women with diverse backgrounds to develop a deeper awareness of their potential to make a difference and become productive contributors to their community.

WCLI wishes to invest in women of modest means who have overcome hurdles of community dependence and have an interest in learning more about their community. By teaching 15 women in each class about the community, leadership and themselves, WCLI empowers them with the knowledge and tools to effect change and build community.  Participants in WCLI will gain a broader, deeper knowledge of their community, how it functions, as well as leadership and professional development skills.

The Program Timeline:  WCLI classes begin February 29, 2012 and end on May 16, 2012, meeting every Wednesday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with dinner included.  Classes will be held at various locations throughout the community.  Participants are expected to miss no more than two sessions.

What You Will Learn: Each session addresses a specific topic, facilitated by experienced professionals in that area.  The meetings include speakers and interactive discussions that cover all aspects of the subject matter.  These hands-on sessions allow class members to learn the essential details of each area of study to develop their own ideas and opinions.  Through this interactive training, class members will gain:
    ¨   A knowledge of formal and informal decision-making channels within the community

    ¨   A broader view of critical community issues

    ¨   An opportunity to gain and practice leadership skills and competencies; and

    ¨   An introduction to key community leaders and an opportunity to network

In addition to the specific program sessions, the class gives back to the community by completing a project that benefits the community.  Together, the class selects a project and develops and executes the plan.  Students experience firsthand how community trusteeship works and learn teamwork and leadership skills and consensus building techniques they can use at work and in volunteer experiences.

Who Should Apply: WCLI is ideal for low- to modest-income women, possibly having had some dependency on community support.  This program is for women who are committed to attending all sessions to learn about the community while gaining professional development skills to help further their success in life.

Tuition & Program Costs: Grants and community contributions cover the cost of the program.  Participants will attend WCLI at no charge. Program participation includes all materials, and meals. Participants must get themselves to each meeting location and obtain their own childcare.  A portion of childcare costs may be reimbursed.

The Process:  We welcome your application.  The selection committee will review your application and essays.  All applicants will be notified by mail in December.  The link to the application is below. For more information, please call 343-1744.

Women’s Community Leadership Initiative Application