By Khalida Sarwari
Who are the movers and shakers in Campbell? What are the city’s most pressing issues, and how can citizens make a difference in their communities? A new program set to begin in October aims to address just those questions.
Modeled after leadership programs in the region–namely Gilroy, Cupertino, Mountain View and Sunnyvale–Leadership Campbell is an initiative created this year by Vice Mayor Evan Low to develop and prepare the city’s future leaders in making thoughtful and informed decisions.
Over the course of six sessions, participants will spend one full Friday every month learning about the community through field trips, group and panel discussions and guest speakers.
The participants will come from diverse backgrounds, said Low. They include those from both the public and private sector, such as people from the business community, the library, sanitation and solid waste departments, public safety and education leaders.
“It really brings in people from all different backgrounds so we can talk about the perspectives we have,” he said.
Each class focuses on a different topic. The theme of the first session will be community leadership, followed by courses on public safety, health and human services, environment and sustainability, business, and community service.
Participants will learn about issues related to trash, water and electricity, types of crime, health care needs, unions, infrastructure and city funding.
The program will culminate with a graduation ceremony in March 2013.
With the knowledge gained in the class, some may decide to run for office or serve on a board, commission or community organization, Low said.
“We want to foster an environment in which residents and leaders in Campbell can have a dialogue about what makes Campbell work, so we can further contribute to making Campbell a better place,” Low added. “We’re hopeful that they’ll have an increased sense of community and an appreciation for the city of Campbell.”
Leadership Campbell’s board of directors is accpeting applications for the program’s inaugural year, which kicks off on Oct. 5. The program is open to anyone who is 18 years or older and who lives or works in Campbell. Anyone who is affiliated with a Campbell organization, such as the Rotary Club, is also invited to apply.
The cost of the program is $850, including meals, materials and the graduation ceremony. Some employers may cover the tuition through their education or career development programs. Partial scholarships are available for those who can demonstrate financial hardship. Each session is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Apply to Leadership Campbell online by the Sept. 15 deadline at www.leadershipcampbell.org.
New program will develop and prepare future Campbell leaders
