EPHRATA — The Community Foundation of North Central Washington is now accepting applications for its upcoming Leadership Institute of NCW program, set to take place in Grant County. This initiative aims to empower residents by equipping them with essential civic skills and leadership knowledge, ultimately fostering stronger communities across the region, according to Leadership Institute of NCW Site Coordinator Summer Hess.

“Our goal is to educate and empower community members for civic leadership roles,” said Hess. “We believe that strong leaders are fundamental to creating strong communities. This program aims to provide citizens with tools to be strong leaders and work alongside governmental officials to solve problems, some people have even joined different governmental agencies after the course including city council and school boards.”

The Leadership Institute of NCW is a free, bilingual training program designed to guide participants through an extensive 20-session curriculum focused on personal and civic leadership. The program is rooted in the nationally recognized Parent Leadership Training Institute framework, which is renowned for its effectiveness in engaging community members to enhance child and family outcomes, according to Hess.

The Leadership Institute will hold classes at the city council chambers of Ephrata City Hall, with sessions commencing in September 2025 and running through January 2026. The training is aimed at anyone 18 and older who is interested in making a difference, including parents, grandparents, veterans and community members.

“Whether it’s volunteering in service clubs, joining nonprofit boards, or participating in local government, engaged residents are crucial for making their communities great places to live, work, and play,” Executive Director Beth Stipe wrote in a statement. “We are committed to inspiring residents from diverse backgrounds to learn about their local civics and leadership.”

Participants in the Leadership Institute can expect a comprehensive educational experience that encompasses a range of civic topics, including public policy, understanding local and state government and practical skills such as how to lead discussions and gather community input. The curriculum focuses heavily on the importance of diversity, teaching participants how to work effectively across different perspectives, Hess said.

According to Hess, one of the program’s standout features is its commitment to accessibility.

“Family meals and childcare will be provided, ensuring that we eliminate barriers that may prevent individuals from participating,” she said.

Rob Bates, a graduate of the program’s inaugural cohort in Wenatchee, emphasized the importance of the network built through the Leadership Institute.

“I really thought I was stepping into something that would teach me about nonprofits and how they work. What I learned was how the government works and how to engage effectively,” Bates said. “The Leadership Institute provided me with a network of people I can reach out to as I work on my current project, which focuses on veterans’ services in our community.”

Bates said that the knowledge he gained has already made a significant impact in his work, allowing him to have more meaningful conversations with local officials and community partners.

“I learned how to refine my communication skills in ways that are more palatable to the public and to officials,” he said.

The program’s emphasis on community projects allows participants to apply their learning in real-world contexts. Each participant is required to design and implement a community project throughout the course. Previous projects from the first cohort included initiatives to enhance accessibility to higher education, improve youth services and develop technologies to assist underserved populations.

“This model allows participants to practice their leadership skills while making immediate, tangible contributions to their community,” Hess said. “We are encouraging individuals to think critically about the issues facing Grant County and use their newfound skills to bring about change.”

Funding for the Leadership Institute of NCW comes from a broad spectrum of community partners dedicated to investing in local leadership development.

“When you have so many organizations coming together, it sends a powerful message to participants that we value their growth and believe in their potential to lead,” Hess said.

The application process is currently open, with a deadline of June 30. Interested individuals can apply through the Leadership Institute’s page on the Community Foundation’s website. An interview will follow for selected applicants, as class size is limited to 30 participants.

“Ultimately, we aim to inspire a new generation of leaders who can work collaboratively to solve community issues,” said Hess. “With increasing diversity in our region, it’s essential that our leadership reflects that, and we are excited to contribute to this goal.”

For more information on the Leadership Institute of NCW and details on how to apply, visit the Community Foundation of NCW’s website, cfncw.org.

      

    Rob Bates, a graduate of the 2024 Leadership Institute, said the program had helped him develop his communication skills. During the course, he worked on a project to expand resources to veterans in Washington. Each participant in the course must find a problem in their community and a solution they could work towards during the course.