Leadership Development Series

Every year since 2003, the Young Leadership Council has hosted a Leadership Development Series (LDS) as a service to its members.  While we have been developing leadership in our members since our founding in 1987, this is first formalized "class" that teaches members the basics of running a nonprofit organization or a YLC project.

Over a period of months, class members develop a concept for a project or organization.  Each week they receive specific direction about Fundraising, Community Relationships, Volunteer Recruitment, Finances, Marketing, and other categories that are vital to a successful organization.  In concert with each class, a guest "celebrity" speaker is invited to present to the group.  Past LDS guest speakers have included Ron Forman, CEO of the Audubon Institute; Paul Pastorek, Louisiana State Superintendent of Schools; Julia Bland, CEO of the Louisiana Children's Museum; Doug Thornton, regional head of SMG; Clancy DuBos, editor and co-owner of Gambit Weekly; and City Councilwoman Stacey Head.

The current project leaders are Alyssa Wenck (alyssaw@bb-cpa.com).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply? Class members of the Leadership Development Series are selected by an application process, and selection and class membership are both an honor and a responsibility. If selected to participate, class members will be billed a tuition fee of $100 which covers all program costs and materials. We are no longer accepting applications for the 2009 series - come back next year to apply for the 2010 series!

What will I learn?

LDS sessions cover topics such as:

Class members will work in groups on mock projects, implementing each week's topic. Guest speakers have included such notable local leaders as Doug Thornton of SMG, Ron Forman of the Audubon Nature Institute, Betsie Gambel of Keating Magee and Paul Pastorek, Louisiana's Superintendent of Education.

What are they saying? Graduates of past LDS classes thought it was a GREAT experience! Here's what they had to say: "Each speaker gave me things to think about regarding helping the YLC and other opportunities for personal and professional growth. I enjoyed every session." "As a relative newcomer to New Orleans, I really appreciated being able to listen to so many amazing and accomplished citizens."

40% of the LDS Class of 2008 currently hold leadership positions with the YLC. 

For more information, please contact Alyssa Wenck at alyssaw@bb-cpa.com.