Leadership training is now available

A group working to inject the skills and abilities of thoughtful leadership into communities is offering training to do that in Grant County, and north county residents can even get some pay to offset mileage.

The Leadership Institute of NCW is all about "Educating and Empowering Community Members for Civic Leadership in NCW." It was a hit in Chelan County last year; this year it's concentrating on Grant County, with plans to do it again in Okanogan County in the next year or so.

Nancy Boord is giving a pitch to city councils and groups who will listen, explaining the dual-language nature of the project, which makes it a little like the United Nations: live interpreters and headphones ensure that everyone can speak in whatever language they're most effective in while they're learning.

the 20 classes will be held in Ephrata on Tuesdays and four Saturdays from Sept. 20, 2025 through Jan. 13, 2026. Boord said Grand Coulee Dam area residents who enroll can be eligible for a $1,000 travel stipend to get there.

Applications are due by June 30. Scan the QR code or head to https://cfncw.org/leadershipinstituteofncw/ to apply.

They say participants benefit by acquiring tools that include:

• How local and state government works

• What public policy is

• Understanding budgets and resource allocations

• Ways to reach local, state, and elected leaders

• Voting and why it matters

• How to lead group discussions and gather ideas

• How to work within diversity in the community

• Ways to empower the community.

"Anyone (18+) with a desire to improve the lives of children, families, and communities is eligible to apply," the groups flyer says. "This includes parents, grandparents, foster parents, single people, farmers, young adults, veterans, and all community members. The Leadership Institute is inclusive and welcomes participants from all backgrounds. Family dinner, child care, and a participation stipend are provided."