New Sponsors

Communities throughout the nation face a broad array of issues, challenges and opportunities. The demands are particularly complex in rural areas, and it is essential to the future of McKean County to develop a generation of leaders willing and able to use its expertise and influence to enhance life in our communities.

Leadership McKean is a ten-month, community leadership development program. Modeled after similar programs currently underway across the country, Leadership McKean County will identify a select group of potential leaders from the public and private sectors. This group will engage in monthly, day-long seminars lead by local leaders and experts from a wide variety of fields. The objectives of the program are:

• To ensure potential leaders are identified and informed about key issues affecting McKean County communities,
• To introduce potential leaders to individuals, offices, agencies, organizations and businesses that provide services in our communities,
• To stimulate the creativity and imagination of potential leaders such that they are motivated to explore new ways to solve persistent problems.

Leadership McKean is the outcome of a cooperative effort involving the Bradford Area Chamber of Commerce, Kane Chamber of Commerce and the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. The members of the steering committee live and/or work in Bradford, Kane, Port Allegany, Smethport and Eldred.

The three cooperating organizations and the members of the steering committee make a substantial investment in this initiative through in-kind services and financial support. There is a tuition cost to either the sponsoring organization or to the individual themselves to participate in the class. Additionally, Leadership McKean seeks financial support to maintain the quality, consistency, and momentum of the program.

The first Leadership McKean class graduated June 2007 with most of the graduates finding their passion and making a difference.

We ask you to consider becoming a Partner in the Leadership McKean initiative by making a contribution at one of the following levels:

In return for your support, you will receive appropriate mention in program materials and the opportunity to provide input into the program. All donors are invited to attend the graduation ceremony to meet the class. We would need to get steering committee approval on this point.

Also, will need to get steering committee approval if there will be any reduction in participant tuition for a donation. If this is approved, we can insert text for that.

To make your contributions to Leadership McKean, contact any member of the steering committee or send your check to Leadership McKean, 300 Campus Drive, Bradford PA 16701.

Leadership McKean has proven to be an prudent, timely initiative to improve the quality of life in McKean County. Just ask any graduate.