Leadership program seeks applicants

Rev. Sharon Core, a recent NLDP participant (photo: Maria Kaiser)

In 2006, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, along with then-Cleveland Mayor Michael White, established a leadership training program for engaged neighborhood leaders. The Neighborhood Leadership Development Program (NLDP) is a free, 16-session community engagement training program for residents of Cleveland and its inner-ring suburbs who are working on projects within Cleveland and who are determined to make a positive impact on their communities.

Twenty committed individuals are chosen for the program each year. NLDP participants and graduates are diverse and have many interests. They are working on a variety of issues to improve life in their communities.

Sharon Core, a University Heights resident, was a participant this past year. Core, an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), sees her life’s work as one of making connections with God, with one another and with community.

During 25 years of parish ministry, her leadership has been centered on making those connections and creating opportunities for people to explore their own gifts and callings.

One of her goals is to find ways the Presbytery can develop a greater understanding of what its churches are doing and what they are facing in their daily work. Core sees connection to the community as important for her church and wants to find ways to be more supportive and encouraging and to rethink strategies to strengthen community fabric.

NLDP enabled her to gain skills that will help her in her work. Core discovered ways that she could lead and work with others differently. It gave her an understanding of her strengths and the areas in which she needed to be more intentional.

Every NLDP participant has ongoing access to the services of a program coach. NLDP coaches give advice and support tailored to the needs of the participant.

The 16 sessions are held on Saturdays at Trinity Commons, 2230 Euclid Ave. The deadline for applications is Aug. 3.

For additional information and to view the curriculum and online application, visit www.nldpcleveland.com, or call 216-776-6167.

Sandra Kluk

Sandra Kluk, a 33-year Heights resident, is program administrator for the Neighborhood Leadership Development Program.

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Volume 11, Issue 7, Posted 10:16 AM, 06.29.2018