AWC offers training for community leaders

Awareness Washington County will be offering a series of facilitation workshops designed to teach community leaders how to facilitate a group. The series will be of use to civic and service group members, elected officials, and anyone who may be serving on a board.

The series will be held on March 13, March 20, April 3, April 10, April 17 and April 24. Each night will begin with dinner at 5:30. Sessions will last until 9:00 pm. The series will be held at the AWC building at 198 Joseph St. Salem. The cost for the entire series is $100 and includes meals, materials, and supplies.

AWC decided to host this series in response to community requests. In a survey conducted by the Washington County Hometown Competitiveness initiative, residents indicated they did not have access to adequate leadership training and that they were not skilled in leading a group discussion or meeting. Responders said they felt leadership was open only to a small group.

"We want to change public opinion about leadership," stated Marji Morris, co-director of AWC. "I think people feel they are not invited to positions of leadership because they don't have the skills and confidence. This series will address those issues."

AWC receives many requests each year to work with groups as they try to reorganize and/or reach a shared vision and mission for the future.

Debbie Mildenburger, co-director, said, "Unfortunately, Marji and I can't help all these groups ourselves. We'd like to train a group of facilitators who could use their skills in their own circles or who would be available to help other groups as well."

Morris noted, "Working with local boards to help them reach consensus is exciting and fulfilling. We like to be able to help the community, and I know others would enjoy this as well once they feel comfortable with the process."

The series was originally slated to occur last spring, but numerous scheduling conflicts caused it to be postponed.

Pre-registration is required. Contact Morris or Mildenburger via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Morris at 896-1515 for more information.