Why Participate in GNLI?
The range of interests among students and alumni reflect the
concerns of community residents as a whole. Among them are: Addressing growth
and development issues; helping our youth succeed; preventing violence and
crime; environmental concerns; removing transportation barriers,
addressing low-families; building cross-cultural understanding; bridging
the gap between citizens and their government; and providing
opportunities for all citizens to take an active and involved role in their
communities.
Who is involved?
The Gwinnett Neighborhood Leadership Institute has attracted
everyday citizens who want to make a difference in their communities and
neighborhoods. Diversity is pivotal to the success of GNLI. Participants
range in age from 21 to over 80. Some students are lifelong residents of
the county, while others are newcomers. Class make-up represents the population
and diversity in Gwinnett. Participants are located countywide. Regardless of
the differences, all participants share a common passion which is aspire to
become a leader or a more effective leader in Gwinnett.
How to Apply?
Applications to participate in the program are accepted
throughout the year. Interviews are conducted in the spring and early
summer. Those selected to participate are notified in early June.
Class size is limited to 35 students per year. There is a $500 program
fee, with some partial scholarships available. Applications can
be downloaded or by contacting Nicole Love at 770-995-3339 or by email:
nicole@gwinnettcoalition.org. The deadline to apply for this year’s class
is April 30, 2012. Any applications that come after the deadline will be added
to the waiting list and will be given priority consideration for next year's
class.
Application/Recruitment Schedule
| January | Formal application distribution and recruitment |
| April 30 | Application deadline |
| May - June | Class Interviews & Selection |
| June-July | Class notification |
| August | GNLI Program Kick-off |
Selection Process The application and selection process is based on the goals of the program, which include:
- Preparing a diverse group of leaders to work collaboratively to establish partnerships that build strong communities;
- Developing new skills, awareness and competencies to lead positive community change in the county;
- Project Identification.
All applicants must complete the official application. Class size is set at 25. The Advisory Board will review applications and the final selection will be based on:
- Information in the application that indicates significant commitment to effecting positive community change and leadership potential;
- Personal commitment to completing project requirements
- Community awareness and problem-solving.
Attendance
The Gwinnett Neighborhood Leadership Institute is an 8 month intensive training program that consists of Saturday Sessions once a month. Full-day sessions are generally held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants are expected to attend all sessions of the program. There are no exceptions. If you are unable to fulfill the 100% attendance requirement, it is best that you complete the program at a later date.
Cost
The fee for the program is $500.
Other
Saturday Sessions take place at various meeting locations throughout Gwinnett. The 2-day Retreat will take place at Simpsonwood Retreat Center in Norcross.