Expand Your Horizons: A Learning Opportunity for Minnesotans

Interested in rediscovering your leadership talents? AARP invites you to apply to become a student in the ALVA Leadership Development program.  The “ALVA Leadership Development for the Rest of Your Life” program is for Minnesotans age 50 and older  who want to improve their individual leadership skills, enhance their knowledge about civic engagement and give back to their community. 

If you are looking to expand your involvement  in community organizations, or to increase your civicengagement, this program is for you.  Participants will learn how to overcome leadership challenges, develop leadership skills, and plan and implement civic projects. 

“This is a great opportunity  for Minnesotans 50+ to move out of their comfort zones and put their lifelong dreams  into action,” said AARP State Director Michele Kimball.  “By interacting with experienced leaders and other program participants, students will learn how to build their skills and broaden their perspectives to become successful leaders.  At the same time, participants are designing projects that help others.”

After completing the course, many participants have become inspired to take on new exciting activities.  Civic projects created as a result of the program include:  Becoming more active at the State Capitol, teaching Tai Chi to older active adults, and helping seniors grow patio gardens. 

“Through ALVA’s course, people are shown ways they can push themselves and accomplish new and meaningful projects,” said Kimball.  “It’s a great way to make a positive impact on your community.” 
   
The program runs from October 2009 to May 2010, meeting.   once a month on a Fridays from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.  The price for the program is $750, but  financial scholarships available.  The locations offering the course are: Century College in White Bear Lake, Inver Hills Community College in Inver Grove Heights, and Minnesota State University in Mankato. 

For sign-up information, visit the Vital Aging Network website at www.vital-aging-network.org.