Long Beach looks for applicants for 22nd Leadership Class

Oscar Cosby announced that “Leadership Long Beach”, the city’s premier leadership development program, is accepting applications for its 2012 Institute Program. LLB invites community members who have expressed an interest in the future of Long Beach through their community involvement.

Interested individuals should apply online at www.leadershiplb.org or pick up an application at 3939 Atlantic Ave., Suite 201, Long Beach, CA 90807.

With the completion of this year’s program in June, Leadership Long Beach will graduate its 1,000th program participant. Since 1989 more than 700 adults and over 250 youth have completed the LLB program, becoming more knowledgeable about their community and contributing to community improvement through their volunteerism, activism and participation.

“LLB Institute offers the rewarding opportunity to become more involved in our community by immersing class members in all aspects and issues plus introducing them to key players and decision makers,” said LLB Board President Tom Farrand. “Graduates of the program go on to serve in various leadership roles including serving non-profits, boards, and commissions within the City. It is this source of committed and involved principled leaders that really strengthens our community.”

The 10-month Institute program holds sessions every month beginning in October 2011 through June 2012 with an orientation meeting in August 2011 and a weekend retreat in Big Bear in September 2011. Throughout the program participants gain insights about the city of Long Beach and are able to connect and interact with leaders in the community. Each class completes service projects that benefit Long Beach such as Youth Diversity Summit, Bricks by the Sea, and Community Health and Wellness fair.

The LLB Institute program goals include connecting people of diverse backgrounds with demonstrated leadership abilities and a commitment for the future of Long Beach; providing an educational experience that encompasses all aspects of the city; and creating a strong network of alumni who can serve as resources for the community. The 2012 Institute graduates will join an alumni community—many of whom serve on city commissions and various non-profit boards, doing volunteer work and making Long Beach a better place for its residents.

The early application deadline is March 31. The program tuition is $3,000 plus a $25 application fee. Partial scholarships are available for individuals, small business owners, and non-profit organizations. The application fee will be waived for those who apply by March 31. For more information, go to www.leadershiplb.org or contact Oscar Cosby at (562) 9979194 or by email at o.cosby@leadershiplb.org.