Press Release-Applications for Chamber’s Leadership Program Now Available

June 13, 2011
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kathy Tippett
928-855-4115
kathyt@havasuchamber.com
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Future leaders alert!
Applications for Chamber’s Leadership Program Now Available

Applications are now available for the 2011-2012 Havasu Leadership Development Program (HLD), sponsored and produced by the Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce. Application deadline is Friday, July 15, 2011.
The Chamber has been producing the program since 2000 and has graduated nearly 250 since its inception. With oversight from the Chamber’s Education Committee, the HLD program is open to anyone, Chamber member or the general public, who is interested in learning or enhancing their leadership skills. Business owners and managers are welcome to participate as are employees or team members of any area company.
Those interested need to complete an application which includes a commitment to participate in each session and in an outside-of-class community project. Upon receipt of the applications, the Chamber hosts an orientation meeting in early August for all applicants. Following the orientation, applicants undergo a personal interview with a panel of committee members. Those accepted into the class are notified by the first of September with the new session opening Wednesday, Sept. 28.
The program runs one day per month for the months between September and May, with an evening session at the beginning of the program and a graduation ceremony in May. At the final session in May, participants must also commit to planning at least one session for the following year’s program.
Each month’s session revolves around a different “issue”, such as Public Speaking, Education, Health and Wellness, Economic Development, etc. During the course of the day, participants will be involved in both lectures, activities and tours relating to the issue. Many of the tours give participants a “backroom” tour of Havasu industries and organizations not normally experienced by the general public.
Members of the program enjoy the tours. “My impression of the class was much different than what I imagined. I pictured lectures and presentations. Getting out in the community was a definite positive,” said Scott Becker, Lake Havasu High School teacher and coach, and 2011 graduate.
Class members also choose a community project at their November session and are tasked with planning, fundraising and building the project prior to their graduation. Past class projects have included the Chamber of Commerce Community Stage at London Bridge Beach; Yonder Neighborhood Park; and Friendship Park at the Western Area Humane Society.
Many graduates find the personal and professional network they build with class members adds value to the skills learned in the program. “We started this class not knowing each other or what to expect. Now that we’ve graduated, I have made some great friendships and have a better understanding of who I am and what I want for my future,” said Shauna Karns, Havasu Fitness Company.
Those interested in applying should contact the Chamber at 928-855-4115. Application information is also available at www.havasuchamber.com.

Photo:
Members of the 2011 HLD graduating class learn how paddle boarding has become a popular past time for visitors to Lake Havasu City during their March issue day on Tourism and Hospitality. Following the short lecture, class members were given the opportunity to climb on a board and paddle.