Leadership La Plata (LLP) is now recruiting its next class of residents to learn more about what makes the community function and improve their leadership skills.
LLP is celebrating its 25th year of providing this training, with around 425 graduates in that time. It's run by volunteers, previous LLP graduates, under the auspices of the Durango Chamber of Commerce.
Erin Youngblood was in the 2004-2005 class. She lived in Durango at the time, but moved to Bayfield recently and is administrator for the Evenings Porch assisted living facility that is scheduled to open in Bayfield this fall.
LLP is looking for applicants from Bayfield, Ignacio and outlying areas, she said. "We want more diversity, not just Durango. We're focusing on the county."
The application deadline is June 3. Class size is limited, so that participants have more opportunity to bond into a group. Once-a-month class days start in September. Each session focuses on a different aspect of community, such as local governments, law enforcement, health care, education, the business community, and the arts.
"I got increased knowledge of how the county works and the issues we face," Younglood said. She also cited the networking opportunities she had and continues to have through LLP.
Youngblood said when she was in the class, she was a stay-at-home mom who worked part-time. "Since then, I went on to get my masters (degree) in social work and have worked in the medical field, home health and hospice," and is now the administrator for the new assisted living facility.
"Leadership LaPlata helped me progress professionally and get where I am," she said.
The LLP mission is, "To establish a cadre of leaders who are committed to developing leadership skills, broadening knowledge of La Plata County, and representing strength in diversity."
The application and more information is at www.leadershiplaplata.org; or contact Youngblood at 884-0101 or e-mail at erin@eveningsporch.com.
