Skilled Staff

Participants develop skills and learn concepts that increase their ability to be effective managers and directors of nonprofit organizations and programs. It prepares mid-level managers for higher levels of responsibility in their organization.

Network of peer support

Participants become members of a community of leaders. The relationships they form create a safe forum where valuable advise and respite can be sought and exchanged. This facilitates dialogue around common struggles as well as personal reflection on their work. Participants gain a sense of confidence in their ability to provide leadership.

Community collaborations

From the individual relationships stem new or enhanced relationships between organizations and across cultures. Fellows seek ways to collaborate with one another in order to provide the best service possible to clients. This has already resulted in inter-organizational cooperative delivery of services.

"My relationship with my executive director has totally changed. Since the organization has been involved with the program, he has shown a commitment to supporting people of color and I see now that he is committed to helping us enter leadership roles."

-Rhybon Mayfield, Fellow

Support Learning

Executive directors and/or board members are requested to debrief on a regular periodic basis with their employees who are Leadership Fellows. This provides Fellows with the opportunity to think critically about what they are learning, synthesize their experience and apply it to their own organization and day to day responsibilities.

Support time away

It is critical that executive directors and other supervisors acknowledge and support their Fellows' time away from the office while in the program. Clearly releasing Fellows from their work is a significant sacrifice. However, Fellows tell us that having the support of their executives and supervisors encourages them to obtain as much training as possible. They report that the relationship with their supervisors improves and that a greater trust develops. Thus, the benefits of leadership development are maximized for both the individual and the organization.

Financial Commitment

The program is underwritten by foundation and corporate partners. However, a small commitment fee of $300 per participant (up to $900 per agency) is requested from participating organizations, together with a signed letter of commitment.

"The program is not only a benefit to individual employees, but for the organization as a whole. It provides an opportunity for staff of color to grow in their professional capabilities and networks."

-Jay Bloom, Executive Director, Morrison Center