MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – The Michigan City Neighborhood Leadership Academy is launching a fall session to help nurture active leaders and create community members who will enhance and impact their neighborhoods.

Applications are now being accepted for Michigan City residents ages 18 and over who reside within the city limits. Applications are available here and will be accepted on a rolling basis, through Sept. 24. Fillable PDFs can be downloaded, completed and emailed to Program Manager Pat Matsey at specialprojects@edcmc.com.

The program is a partnership between the City of Michigan City and the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City. It is directed at residents who are interested in taking on a leadership role within their own neighborhoods and bringing neighbors together to cultivate change. Participants will learn more about the city, its departments, government processes and resources while developing leadership skills to bolster their neighborhood’s identity and future path.

The program includes eight sessions on Thursdays from Oct. 1 through Nov. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. Mandatory Cornerstone Class sessions will be from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays Oct. 17 and 24. These foundational classes will educate and empower participants using the Asset-Based Community Development framework.

“We are honored to guide our community members toward roles that will strengthen their neighborhoods and boost our city overall,” said EDCMC Executive Director Clarence L. Hulse. “Past academy sessions have led to ideas, activities and events to inspire teamwork and collaboration in our community.”

“Strong neighborhoods are built by residents who are willing to step forward, bring people together and turn ideas into action,” said Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch. “The Neighborhood Leadership Academy gives participants the knowledge, tools and connections they need to become effective advocates for their neighborhoods and help shape Michigan City’s future.”

A commitment to the two cornerstone sessions and at least six of the eight dates is required to graduate. During the last class, participants will present their final projects before a graduation ceremony.

Contact Matsey with questions at 219-873-4008 or email specialprojects@edcmc.com.