MonticelloLive

“The most important resource possessed by Southeast Arkansas is its people.” says Jo Anne Smith, Executive Director of the Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition, Inc. Recognizing this resource, the Cornerstone Coalition, Inc. announces the unveiling of the Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition Leadership Development Institute (CLDI). “Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute will build on the skills of individuals, including followers, to become more regionally connected leaders and volunteers. This is an investment in our human capital.” states Smith. CLDI is a skills-based program that broadens participants’ perspectives, examines regional and community issues, expands opportunities to develop friendships from all segments of the community, and strengthens leadership skills. Selected participants have a unique opportunity to work with area CEOs, professionals, elected officials, and other fellow leaders as they focus on key regional community issues while developing leadership skills. CLDI welcomes and encourages applications from men and women in all walks of life. Applicants must live and work in Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Desha, Drew or Lincoln Counties.

CLDI will be presented in monthly, day-long sessions conducted by highly qualified professionals in various fields. Each session attempts to address major issues in a unique and exciting format which will result in solutions and plans of action. Glenda Nichols, Executive Director of the Monticello-Drew County Chamber of Commerce will be taking applications from interested individuals through March 1, 2007. A fee of $10 is due with each application. The cost of the nine-month long program is $100 per student, and scholarships are available to students who qualify. All of the tuition money collected will go directly to expenses involved in providing materials and instruction for the course including meals and refreshments. Five participants will be selected from each of the six counties in the Cornerstone Coalition region for a total of 30 participants. CLDI will be a recurring program with a new application opportunity opening in January of each year. Sessions for the Class of 2007 begin April 17, 2007 and end December 18, 2007.

“It is impossible for the class to accommodate every individual who applies this year.” states Nita McDaniel, Co-Chair for the CLDI Steering Committee. “However, individuals who apply and pay their application fee and are not selected for the Class of 2007, will be kept on file to apply for the Class of 2008.”

Participants in the Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute make a commitment of time, energy and money. Nominees must have the full written approval of the organization/employer they represent. In addition, attendance at all sessions is required. The intent of the CLDI is that graduates of the program make a commitment to continue their involvement in their region and community. This involvement may consist of serving on boards, working with various agencies, or undertaking a community project that addresses some identified need. During a formal graduation ceremony, participants will be inducted into the CLDI Alumni Association for continued involvement in regional community activities.

Applications for Cornerstone Leadership Development Institute are available through the Monticello-Drew County Chamber of Commerce located at 335 East Gaines Street, phone: 367-6741, or on the Southeast Arkansas Cornerstone Coalition website. Local Chambers of Commerce in the six-county regional Cornerstone area (Ashley, Bradley Chicot, Desha, Drew, Lincoln counties) will be receiving applications for their respective communities.