How you and your community will benefit:

By attending this academy, you will be able to:

Identify key community figures, decision-makers, communication networks and involvement practices.
· Locate relevant important information and learn how to access resources from state, regional and national levels.
· Learn how to increase community involvement.
· Increase knowledge and community leadership skills.
· Develop a community vision and assess its potential.
· Mentor your community and its team in planning and development efforts.
· Recharge your community spirit.

What does it mean to be on a Community Development team?

The Community Development Academy is a five-day workshop where motivated community teams learn community engagement and planning skills. Participants will increase their knowledge and leadership skills, recharge spirits and inspire community action to help their communities embrace opportunities in Kansas. Teams will apply everything learned in the academy to enhance the quality of life in their communities.

The Community Development Academy will allow participating community members to:

· Conduct effective assessment and planning activities that match community needs with available skills and internal and external resources
· Develop effective leadership that incorporates citizen participation
· Develop effective communication for sharing a vision that citizens can embrace
· Receive support for affordable housing and improved rural services
· Guide effective overall organizational development
· Achieve more success in obtaining state, local or federal resources and funding
· Meet and visit with funding specialists from private, state and federal agencies