.July 21, 2026

Businesses, local governments and nonprofits all offer ways that area residents can hone their leadership skills. Most are motivated by a sense that many people need a bit of encouragement – and practice with skills – to put themselves forward to help build the team or the community. Churches and civic clubs have been part of the effort for generations.

Two active practitioners addressed the Forum this morning on the subject. Five more were invited. And dozens could have participated if one were trying to identify all the practitioners in a million-strong region. If you might be interested in participating in one of these groups, a listen below will help you sketch out the terrain. Both speakers emphasized that there is no one path. Those interested should look for a program that meets their needs.

Speakers this morning were Chrystal Joy, Lee Institute’s managing director, co-facilitator of the Institute’s American Leadership Forum, and program manager of the Black Social Capital Institute (BSCI); and Christine Edwards, founder of Civility Localized.

Below the video are two handouts with information about Edwards’ Civility Localized