Applications are now being accepted for Leadership Tomorrow Class 21, 2008-09. This professional development, community preparedness and leadership skills training program will start in September 2008, followed by one-day-a-month sessions, commencing with graduation in May of 2009. The Leadership program was created in 1986 to assist present and future community leaders in preparing for leadership positions in government and community affairs. The purpose of Leadership Tomorrow is to be able to provide Vermilion County with a continuing resource of men and women equipped with community-based knowledge and leadership skills - challenged to get involved; shaping the future and direction of our community’s potential. This is a County-wide program.

The two day retreat in September will address community issues/concerns; leadership styles; conflict resolution and team building/trust exercises. The remaining program days are as follows (and are subject to change):

• October – Agriculture and Conservation/Natural Resources Day
• November – History Day/Leadership Segment
• December – Business & Industry/Retail
• January – Health Care Day/Team building
• February – Education Day/Review community service/project status
• March – Criminal Justice Day/Leadership Segment
• April – Government Day/Business Ethics
• May – Graduation/Review/Critique of the program

This will be the fourth year of our collaboration with Danville Area Community College. The Leadership program itself can earn 2 hours of college credit and the service learning hours start with 2 college credit hours (for 75 hours of service) up to a maximum of 6 (225 hours of service). A journal must be kept documenting the community hours; and a "reflection paper" describing the role and need that organization fulfills, along with your personal reflection, will be collected at the end of the program in May of 2009.

Applications are available for Leadership Tomorrow at the Vermilion Advantage office, 28 West North Street or by calling 442-6201. Applicants will go thru an interview process. Tuition cost is $750.00 inclusive (includes $50 personal investment) for the 9 month program. Applications should be submitted by August 1, 2008. For more information, contact Machelle Dykes.