Why Leaders?

When working towards a goal, like the flourishing of a community, the ability to harness the power of the group is vital to achieving the goal. A leader is the individual who has the ability to harness that power because he/she has been given the trust of the group. Leaders steer the direction of a group whether intentionally or unintentionally.

The leader uses his/her beliefs, network, and capacity to guide the group and achieve their outcomes. Our emphasis on fostering relationships between and among leaders is directly tied to this truth. Spending time maturing a leader spiritually, emotionally, and relationally grows his/her capacity to lead well. By integrating them into a network of their peers with shared values and vision, we have found the most impressive impacts.

Leadership that is local in context holds additional significance. Leaders who are physically close to the communities they serve have a deeper understanding of the unique challenges, needs, and aspirations of their constituents. This proximity allows them to tailor solutions to address specific local issues most effectively. These solutions can cater to the unique cultural, social, and economic dynamics of their area. The specific strategies can adapt to fit the local context, ensuring that solutions have a better chance of success.

Additionally, local leaders have personal connections within their communities. They may have grown up in the area, lived there for a long time, or have strong ties through family and friends. This personal connection can drive a genuine commitment to the community's well-being and can leverage the trust of the community to empower residents to take an active role in shaping the solution and fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the outcome.