Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce launches new leadership series for 20-something professionals

Sharon Hanks

The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce is launching a new training program called Emerging Leaders Series for 20-something young professionals.

The four-session program will focus on developing leadership skills, training for board service, and introducing participants to community leaders and engagement opportunities. The sessions are aimed at young professionals in their 20s who may not have the leadership experience needed to participate in the intense nine-month-long Leadership Grand Rapids, another leadership program sponsored by the Chamber.

"This is really for young professionals who have a real passion for community service but might not know where to start," says Kevin Stotts, the chamber's spokesperson. The program was developed based on suggestions from young professionals, including two who work at the Chamber: Danielle Vander Lugt, program coordinator, and Sarah Abel, marketing and outreach coordinator.

Graduates of Download GR, a one-day community orientation for young professionals sponsored by the Chamber, are encouraged to participate.

Stotts says 25 candidates will be selected for the program's first "class" that will meet from noon to 5 p.m. on June 9, June 30, July 21 and August 11. Cost for corporate employees is $500. Cost for workers at non-profits is $350. Most candidates are expected to be sponsored by their employer, however there are some partial scholarships available.

Applications are due May 28. To apply, go to the Chamber's website. For more information call 771-0334.

Source: Kevin Stotts, Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

Sharon Hanks is innovations and jobs news editor at Rapid Growth Media. Please send story ideas and comments for the column to Sharon at [email protected]. She also is owner of The Write Words in Grand Rapids.