Leadership Education and Development Seminar (LEADS)
Our LEADS training program identifies members at the grassroots level who have the potential and desire to assume leadership positions in GFWC beyond their local club. Participation in LEADS provides these members with the capabilities, confidence, and commitment to pursue and achieve higher office and serve with distinction.
Each year, one member representing each state federation is selected to attend the LEADS program, held in conjunction with the GFWC Annual International Convention. The training program includes a full day of workshops, seminars, activities, and networking opportunities.
Program topics vary, according to current trends and issues, and may include:
- Presentations on conflict resolution, mediation, public speaking, time management, parliamentary procedure
- Explanation of GFWC resources, materials, and assistance
- Discussions on GFWC policies, procedures, and parliamentary law
- Tips and techniques for pursuing leadership opportunities
CRITERIA FOR LEADS PARTICIPATION
A LEADS state candidate should:
- Demonstrate leadership capabilities at the club level as an active club president, club officer, or club project/committee chairman
- Exhibit a commitment to the Federation
- Exhibit an understanding of the GFWC mission of community service, illustrated by programs/projects in which she is/has been involved
- Demonstrate leadership skills, including but not limited to organization, responsibility, trustworthyness, enthusiasm, flexibility
- Exhibit an interest and willingness to pursue higher leadership positions in the Federation
- Agree to share information gained from participation in LEADS with others in the state
- Understand and accept potential expenses involved in participation
- Not have held an elected position at or beyond the state level
- Not have previously been a LEADS candidate
SELECTION PROCESS
Each state Federation annually selects one LEADS attendee. Attendees are expected to meet the criteria listed above. The final selection is at the discretion of each state Federation.
EXPENSES
GFWC covers a portion of the attendees' expenses, including:
- Round-trip travel to and from the GFWC Convention city*
- One-half of room charge for two nights at official Convention hotel *
- Breakfast and lunch during the LEADS program
- Discounted Convention meal charges
State federations are encouraged to underwrite a portion of attendee's expenses (e.g., additional lodging, meals, or Convention registration). LEADS attendees are responsible for a portion of their expenses as an affirmation of their personal commitment.
*LEADS participants make their own travel and lodging arrangements for reimbursement after the seminar
