Leadership Institute

 

The Leadership Institute offers a powerful combination of elements:

  • Leadership Development: Building Partnerships; Community Mapping; Fundraising; Strategic Planning; Understanding the Process of Change
  • Cultural Competency: Strengthening the capacity of leadership teams to be more intentionally inclusive of diverse cultures in their community and increase their ability to value cultural differences
  • Networking: Common reporting and evaluation tools; Sharing of information and best practices; Planning regional activities; Place-Based planning
  • Learning Practices: The Five Elements of Adopt-A-Watershed
    • Standards-based instruction focused on the local environment
    • Meaningful, ongoing monitoring of the local watershed
    • Hands-on restoration projects
    • Community education
    • Reflection

Who can participate?

Qualifying teams include members who represent critical roles in their community, including:

  • Influential teachers and school administrators
  • Students capable of taking on leadership roles
  • Individuals willing to coordinate and support the work of the team
  • Community partners representing businesses, agencies, or individuals willing to help build and sustain the program
  • University faculty, city planners, resource agency representatives, funders, and others willing to implement AAW in their teacher preparation and outreach

Each of these roles is critical to the ongoing success of a program. Additionally, the team’s leadership skills and ability to collaborate toward a shared vision are important considerations. We encourage team representation that reflects the cultures of your community.

Do I need to build a full team before I apply?

No. Although we encourage you to establish a strong and committed group of team participants, part of what we offer is planning and outreach to get you off to a sound start and ensure a viable program. We can help you identify key prospects and build partnerships within your community to grow your leadership team.

What will the team receive?

  • Five-day Summer Leadership Institute
  • Reading materials, manuals and workbooks, food, lodging, and team consultation
  • Experience in leading, planning, and supporting Place-Based learning projects on resources, such as GLOBE, Service-Learning Bookshelf, River of Words, and Schoolyard Habitats
  • A $200 annual stipend for each participant to purchase instructional materials, including AAW curriculum materials and kits
  • Four units of graduate credit for each team member
  • A solid network of peers and recognized professionals in the field to support your work

What will my community receive?

  • A comprehensive program that addresses its educational needs and engages its students in stewardship activities
  • Professional leadership and community building supported by a national organization
  • A healthier place to live, with widespread community awareness and support

What are the team’s responsibilities?

  • Build a team of members dedicated to growing a strong local program
  • Participation in all Leadership Institute activities.
  • Cultivate partnerships in your community necessary for your success
  • Identify potential projects that can be used to implement Place-Based Learning in your local schools
  • Develop a strategic plan for program implementation
  • Work with AAW to seek local funding opportunities
  • Keep a portfolio and participate in program evaluation
  • Provide your own transportation to workshops and institutes
  • Provide $500 per participant co-payment to help with matching fund requirements
  • Provide 2 release days by school district or employing organization for each team member

How can I learn more?

We are here to answer questions, address concerns, get you started, cheer you on, and help you make a valuable impact on your community. Contact us at:

Adopt-A-Watershed
P.O. Box 1850
Hayfork, CA 96041
530.628.5334 Phone
530.628.4212 Fax

Who makes this possible?

Adopt-A-Watershed provides each team with support valued at $25,000 annually. Local Leadership Development Program networks are funded by grants from these funders.