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Local Leadership Programs Effectively Engage Members in Local Problems
| Name | Bob Guinn | | Situation | Beaufort County South Carolina is one of the faster growing counties in South Carolina. One reason for the high growth is that many individuals retire to this area due to its great beauty, mild climate, and attractive beaches and ocean. While many see growth as a blessing, fast growth creates a burden on county infrastructure including schools and education, transportation systems, and the environment. Most jobs are in the service industry and job wages are below those of the South Carolina State average. | | Response | While retirees may not create high paying service jobs, they do bring talent and experiences that can be used as a resource for community development opportunities. These opportunities include board members, commissions, volunteerism, task forces, and government appointed boards and commissions, educational improvement committees, and other civic minded duties.
To facilitate movement into these roles, a retirement leadership
program was established to offer insight into these volunteer
opportunities. Thus, the creation of the Greater Beaufort Senior Leadership Program run by Clemson Extension in which the ultimate goal is to facilitate the experience of the engaged citizen and movement into community participation.
In January of 2005, 30 individuals were enrolled in the Greater Beaufort Senior Leadership Program. These individuals attended 11 weeks and experienced approximately 70 hours of classroom activity. Major topics included were: health, human services, education, environment, local government, law enforcement, economic development, tourism, and military.
Students were also asked to participate in research projects and produce a "White Paper" by graduation. Topics included: Economic Development, The Future of Beaufort County, Funding and Structure of Clemson Extension in Beaufort County, and Educational Challenges facing Beaufort County. | | Impact | All 28 students graduating have agreed to help with leadership
education for one year. At graduation, 5 indicated that they were interested in being on government boards and commissions. In previous years, the white papers have been presented to Beaufort County Council,
citizen groups and organizations, and chamber committees. It is our hope that sound research will influence individuals to make effective decisions in our communities. Research has shown that 70% of our graduates are effectively engaged in the community three years after graduating from this leadership program. |
Last update6/2/2008
This website is maintained by Amy West.
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