Investing in northern Santa Barbara County social sector leaders
“Vibrant communities are dependent on an ever-expanding base of strong, supported and nurtured leadership.” – Santa Barbara Foundation
In 2016, Leading From Within launched our Leading for Community Impact program (LCI) to invest in leaders in the Santa Maria, Lompoc and Santa Ynez Valley and surrounding areas, who are on the front lines of serving many of Santa Barbara County’s most vulnerable residents. In order to support communities to thrive, we believe it is vitally important to develop and support the current and next generation of nonprofit and social sector leaders.
LCI is an 11-month program that assembles a select cohort from northern Santa Barbara County of seasoned social sector leaders and those stepping into new leadership roles. The program guides them through a rigorous, relevant and applied curriculum on leadership and management.
Imagine having the Time, Knowledge, and Supportive Peer Community to Invest in Your Leadership
Leading for Community Impact provides a unique, powerful professional development opportunity for nonprofit and other social sector leaders. We create a safe, reflective, and supportive learning environment where participants cultivate deep connections with peers, mentors, and community leaders and safely take risks on behalf of their development. The program is designed to help individuals increase the impact of their leadership on their organization and the community at large.
In LCI, you will explore your leadership style while being given the reflective space and learning community to reconnect with your purpose. You will lead with a new mindset, and a variety of skills and strategies to put into action in your organization immediately.
Consider a Powerful, Inspiring, Learning Experience
Leading for Community Impact engages social sector leaders in a range of professionally relevant curriculum including:
- Cutting edge tools and research on management and leadership, presented by experienced trainers
- Strategic thinking, effective management, and skillful collaboration
- Knowledge and insights about the distinctive characteristics and dynamics of nonprofit organizations and our communities
- Connections with community leaders and resources
- A new network of colleagues with a common purpose — to support each other’s leadership today and long after the program
To Learn More
- Read more about the Application Process, including Commitment, Fees and Dates
- Connect with some of our 100+ alumni
- Attend an information session to learn more
Applying
Applications for LCI 2025-26 cohort will be available on April 14, 2025.
The application process consists of the following:
- Complete and submit your profile information in the Application Form below.
- Complete and submit a list of Application Questions which will become available once you complete the form below. This involves opportunities for us to better know you and understand your intentions to learn and grow as a community leader.
- Send a Recommendation Form (provided by us, online) to your sponsoring manager.
To Stay Up to Date
Want to stay in the loop? Fill out our Program Interest Form to get updates on application dates, deadlines, and other helpful info.