The Coalition for Healthy Communities believes there is untapped leadership potential in the Zion-Benton area. The Zion-Benton Leadership Academy identifies, assists and empowers individuals to become active and inspiring contributors in our community. The coalition envisions community leadership reflecting the diversity of our community and that a culture change will result in leadership development, life-long learning and giving back in the Zion-Benton community.
Goals of the academy include:
o Increase diversity in Zion-Benton leadership (age, gender, race, socio-economic status, etc)
o Encourage and motivate individuals interested in becoming community leaders
o Succession planning for leadership roles
o Increase community involvement in social and civic organizations
o Make our community a place where people want to live, work and raise their families
|
Zion Benton Leadership Academy Participant selection is based on evidence of community involvement and a willingness to assume greater community responsibilities such as service on an appointed or elected board or committee. Experienced community leaders serve as mentors to the participants. Coursework includes an assessment of skills and strengths; leadership and ethics; running for office and community heritage. Sessions will be held every other Saturday, September through November. Zion-Benton Leadership Academy is now accepting applications through May 31. ParticipantsZBLA Participant Brochure Mentors |
JR. Zion Benton Leadership Academy The Jr. Zion-Benton Leadership Academy was developed to nurture our youth for future leadership positions in Beach Park, Winthrop Harbor and Zion. Our mission is simple: To identify and empower young people to give back to their community. The five-session curriculum features nontraditional, hands-on training and experiences. The courses include Teamwork, Building Self-Confidence, Effective Communication, Cultural Diversity, Servanthood, and College Readiness. What does it take to be a Jr. Zion-Benton Leadership Academy participant? Jr. ZBLA is seeking candidates who are engaged, compassionate, imaginative, honest and progressive. As a Jr. ZBLA participant, students will learn what it takes to be a leader who will help shape the future of the Zion-Benton community. Leaders will be carefully matched with a mentor who shares similar interests and backgrounds. ParticipantsJR ZBLA Participant Brochure |
The Zion-Benton Leadership Academy Meetings are held on:
the 4th Monday of each month at:
ZB Coaltion Office at 1015 27th Street, Zion, IL 60099
Leads: Colette Davis and Sandra Usher
If you’re interested in attending, please send us an email.
ZBLA Alumni Corner
ZBLA Graduate: Brandon Rogers
Mentor: Judge John Phillips
Why did you decide to participate in ZBLA?
At the time, I was looking for something new to get involved in. A former ZBLA graduate told me about the program and encouraged me to apply, so I did. ZBLA was an opportunity to develop as a leader and meet the right people to help with some of my goals.
What was the greatest takeaway?
Definitely the key relationships! I’ve built a close relationship with my mentor. Since my graduation two years ago, we regularly meet up for dinner, text each other and I even take my daughter along to his family activities. I can share my ideas with him and he gives great insight. He’s very resourceful and such a great guy! I’m grateful for ZBLA for making connection between him and me.
What’s something you’ve done as a result of ZBLA?
I received the opportunity to run the Rising Stars program at Zion-Benton Township High School, under the leadership of Roger Kiefer, who I met in ZBLA. I also use leadership instructions and resources I learned through ZBLA to guide my relationships with the youth I work with as well as bring skills to life for athletes.
What is one piece of advice you’d give someone who wants to become more involved in the community?
If you’re not part of the solution and just standing on the side complaining about the problem, doing nothing, you’re part of the problem!
