According to recent census data, Central Ohio is becoming increasingly more diverse and the momentum created led to the formation of Pride Leadership

The Mission of the United Way of Central Ohio (UWCO) is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community. UWCO has always been in front of the most pressing issues facing our community.  Recognizing that the makeup of the community is changing, the organization has remained committed to identifying, understanding and developing solutions for the most critical issues related to common need.  The Community Vision of UWCO is a community in which everyone has the aspirations, opportunities and resources to realize their potential and achieve economic well being. 

In 2008, UWCO initiated Pride Leadership to increase volunteer opportunities for people in the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual & Transgender) community.  The program aligns with the UWCO organizational key principle of Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion.   Currently, the program involves an intense eight-month training curriculum designed to prepare participants for effective service on a not-for-profit board or leadership position. The intent is to give people in the LGBT community a much-needed voice in community leadership particularly as the make-up and demographics of our community continue to change.  To be considered, applicants must submit a current resume and complete an application as well as demonstrate an interest in participating in community service.

The program consists of ten to twelve sessions that are two hours in length. The sessions are conducted during the business day.  Typical workshop sessions include:  Organizational Planning, Leading through Conflict, Fundraising and Resource Development, Fiscal Management, Parliamentary Procedures and Technology.  Class or Cycle size is 15 to9 18 individuals per year.  Each participant pays a tuition cost of $500.  Project applicants are selected by a group of volunteers representing the United Way of Central Ohio and corporate sponsors.

There are two outcomes for Pride Leadership that represent short and long term objectives – 1) Increase the knowledge & skills of participants to effectively prepare them for service in a not for profit setting (short-term); and 2) increase the diversity of local not-for-profit boards/committees through the placement of Pride Leadership graduates into these environments (long-term).

 

For more information, contact Shayne Downton at shayne.downton@uwcentralohio.org.