Positive changes cropped up in Reno County after KCLI leadership training took root there.

Three graduates from Leadership Reno County chose to run for public office, and all three of them won those elections. Two gained seats on school boards while one took a spot on the city council, says Lynette Lacy, co-director of Leadership Reno County.

Other participants in the program started a Young Professionals Organization that has been very successful. The purpose of the Young Professionals group is to serve as the voice of their generation in their communities as well as to provide activities, services and programs involving self-development, philanthropy, social events and leadership that will benefit young professionals. For example, the group hosted an event at the Kansas State Fair for young professionals and their families, thanks to sponsorship from the Kansas Department of Commerce. The event included guest speakers, a scavenger hunt and activities for children.

One of the most valuable lessons that KCLI training taught Reno County residents was how to interact more effectively with people who have different learning, thinking and working styles. “For significant change to be made in our community, we must engage the unusual voices,” Lacy says. “People who have differing perspectives add significant value to the community conversations.”

Leadership Reno County holds two leadership training classes annually, each with an average of 32 participants. This leadership group has formed an alumni association that provides Reno County with a pool of folks who are excellent resources for many community initiatives. Many KCLI alumni also serve on nonprofit boards and are active in other volunteer work. The alumni association provides some full and partial scholarships for the leadership training classes, which makes it possible for many people to attend the program who otherwise could not afford it.

The Kansas Health Foundation would like to congratulate Leadership Reno County on its success!