Develop the skills to build inclusive communities
Our advanced leadership training program focuses on preparing the next generation of leaders to answer the call to serve the communities of the Willmar Lakes Area. L.E.A.D., under the direction of Program Director Jennifer Lindquist, brings together a diverse group of participants from around the Willmar Lakes Area and Kandiyohi County to empower leaders by developing professional and personal skills for the betterment of our communities.
Participants will....
Program Description
The purpose of L.E.A.D. is to empower individuals from diverse segments of the Willmar Lakes Area to serve as leaders who will strengthen our communities by developing their professional and personal skills. L.E.A.D. is designed to educate and motivate citizens for community leadership and volunteer service. Participants are selected on the basis of ability, leadership potential, and demonstrated interest in the community.
Participation in the program represents a significant commitment of time and dedication. The sessions will typically be held during the day on the second Thursday of the month from September to April. Please save the date for September 3rd (1 hour zoom orientation), September 10, October 8, November 12, December 10, January 14, February 11, March 11, and our final session will be on April 15th with a graduation. Applications due by September 1st, 2026.
2026 L.E.A.D. Graduation Details
Join us as we celebrate the accomplishments of the L.E.A.D. of Kandiyohi County Class of 2026! This special event honors the dedication and growth of participants who have completed this leadership program, equipping them with the skills and connections to make a lasting impact in our community.
Listen to the inspiring reflections from our graduates and connect with local leaders and supporters.
Reserve your seat today and be part of this celebration.
Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026 starting at noon
Location: Willmar Conference Center
Tickets: $31 per person (includes lunch)
Sponsored by Willmar Area Community Foundation and Southwest Initiative Foundation.
Applicant Commitment
Applicants are expected to serve and strengthen the area upon completion of the program. Although some employers may have an internal selection process, submitting an application does not guarantee a position in the L.E.A.D. Class.
The Selection Committee may be unable to place all eligible candidates, even if these applicants have demonstrated excellent credentials. These applicants are encouraged to re-apply for future programs.
Assignments outside of class sessions may be required. If selected as a participant, applicants will be expected to attend all sessions and complete program assignments.
Applicants shall certify that the information provided on the application is true and complete, and agree that falsified information or significant omissions may disqualify a candidate from further consideration by the Selection Committee. Such behavior may be considered justification for dismissal from the program if discovered after admittance.
Selection Criteria
- Participants will be chosen by the Selection Committee based on application materials submitted by program candidates.
- The Selection Committee strives to recruit candidates from a representative cross-section of the Willmar Lakes Area.
- Participants must have motivation, interest, and a commitment to serve the community.
- Individuals living or working in the Willmar Lakes Area are eligible to participate. A maximum of 30 candidates will be selected to participate in the L.E.A.D. Class.
- Participants are expected to attend all the sessions and activities associated with them in various communities throughout the Willmar Lakes Area. The sessions will typically be held during the day on the second Thursday of the month from September to April.
- Applicants should present evidence of past or current community involvement and demonstrate a willingness to commit themselves to active volunteer involvement in the community.
- Program Candidates must demonstrate an ability to achieve personal goals and have time available to dedicate to community service as well as a personal commitment to the Willmar Lakes Area.
Apply for the 2026-2027 L.E.A.D. Class!
Fill out the application below for the 2027 L.E.A.D. Class.
Please save the date for September 3rd (1 hour zoom orientation), Sessions start on September 10, October 8, November 12, December 10, January 14, February 11, March 11, and our final session will be on April 15th with a graduation. Applications due by September 1st, 2026.
Special Thank You to Our Partners
Support the Program
Our partners make the L.E.A.D. of Kandiyohi County program possible. If you are looking for a way to support our program or assist with a small business scholarship fund, we ask that you consider donating. Willmar Area Community Foundation has a way to donate through their website now. 'Choose LEAD of Kandiyohi County' for funds to go directly to our program.