FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Applications to become part of the Leadership Fort Wayne (LFW) program’s Class of 2019 are now available. LFW helps individuals build leadership skills to drive positive change through civic engagement. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2018.
“LFW grows your network, your leadership skills, your understanding of Fort Wayne, and your knowledge overall. The experience is fun along the way, too,” said Brittainy Chaffee, a 2017 LFW alumna. “From the behind-the-scenes tours to panelists to presentations to the vast variety of experience of your classmates, you are guaranteed to change your sense of the Fort Wayne community. If you aren’t already a champion of Fort Wayne when you start, you will certainly grow to be one.”
LFW was founded in 1983 by the Northeast Indiana Corporate Council and Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne with support from the Lilly Endowment to identify, motivate, develop, and train future community leaders. Since that time, LFW, which merged with Greater Fort Wayne Inc. in 2014, has provided more than 1,300 individuals a behind-the-scenes look at all aspects of the community, ranging from the arts to government and economic development.
Class members participate in panel discussions with leaders of community organizations, discussing the most pressing issues and opportunities facing the community. They obtain cutting-edge skill training from leadership professionals focused on topics that are most relevant in today’s ever-changing society. In addition, class members participate in Community Action Projects, shadowing experiences, a 360-degree leadership skill assessment, and have the opportunity to serve a one-year internship on the board of a nonprofit organization.
“Each new Leadership Fort Wayne class brings a diverse group of talented and engaged individuals together to better understand the needs, challenges, and attributes of our vibrant community,” said Cheri Becker, a 1988 LFW alumna. Becker served as LFW’s executive director from 2009 until the organization’s 2014 merger with Greater Fort Wayne Inc., and now serves as VP of investor services and signature programs for GFW Inc. “Leadership Fort Wayne has been a foundational building block of civic engagement for the past 35 years, where community leaders develop the skills necessary to work together in a diverse community and learn the importance of servant leadership and civic trusteeship as a means of community empowerment and improvement.”
Interested participants can download the materials and apply online at LFWapp.gfwinc.com. All applicants must include a letter of recommendation, preferably from an LFW alumnus. For additional information, email leadership@greaterfortwayneinc.com or call (260) 420-6945.
About Greater Fort Wayne Inc.
Greater Fort Wayne (GFW) Inc. serves Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana, as its metro chamber alliance and primary point of contact for economic growth. GFW Inc. focuses on prosperity and community vibrancy through economic development, advocacy, programs, and resources that support business success, leadership development, graduate retention, and community engagement.
