C-Change, the year-long leadership development program for young professionals, is about to chose its 2010 class. If you're interested in joining up, you have until Sept. 24 to submit an application.
Started in 2006, C-Change is the signature development program for HYPE (Harnessing Young Professional Energy) Initiative of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber of Commerce. C-Change mixes traditional leadership curriculum, community service and social and networking events. It's targeted toward the region's emerging leaders.
Each year 50 young professionals are picked for the program which kicks off in January. The program takes a real commitment: the cost is $2,700, participants attend 10 day-long sessions throughout the year and are involved in a community project that requires work outside of class. The community project is based on the focus areas of
Agenda 360, Greater Cincinnati's strategic planning initiative.
But for C-Change members the time and financial commitment is worth it, said Julie Bernzott
HYPE Programs Manager.
"People really enjoy the sessions, especially the one on personal branding, and thinking of yourself as a brand. That is particularly helpful for people who are younger and maybe not as established," Bernzott said.
In addition the connections people make through C-Change are just as valuable. Bernzott said people have gotten jobs with the help of C-Change friends and have widened the personal social circle.
"There are people who met in C-Change who have been in each other's weddings," Bernzott.
The cost, which includes an overnight retreat, sessions, meals and supplies, is often paid for by employers - for those who can't afford the price tag, C-Change offers a limited number of grants.
Development Topics and Areas Covered during C-Change include:
- 5 Keys of a Successful Team
- Leadership style assessment and personal leadership philosophy
- Personal branding and strategic development plan
- Communication as a leader, including social presence, "30 second elevator speech," and negotiation
- Inclusive leadership, including history on ethnic & race relations
- Regional history, including a tour of Cincinnati landmarks and the subway
- Economic and job development in the region
To apply, for C-Change go
here.
Writer: Feoshia Henderson
Source: Julie Bernzott, HYPE Programs Manager
You can follow Feoshia on twitter
@feoshiawrites
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