GFWC Leadership Education and Development Seminar (LEADS)
The GFWC Leadership Education and Development (LEADS) Seminar program is intended to identify GFWC members at the grassroots level who have the potential and the desire to assume leadership positions in GFWC beyond their club. Participation in LEADS can help these members gain the capabilities, confidence, and commitment necessary to pursue and achieve higher office and serve with distinction. The LEADS program is held annually the day before the official opening of the GFWC Annual Convention. It is a full day of activities, and includes breakfast and lunch.
Application and Selection Process
Each state federation selects one LEADS attendee annually. GFWC provides state federations with guidelines and forms to help them in selecting LEADS candidates, and using LEADS graduates to enhance state leadership. See LEADS Information for State Federations.
The LEADS application form is available in the GFWC Member Portal in the LEADS folder under L in the digital library.
LEADS Content and Presentations
LEADS may include the following:
- Presentations on conflict resolution, public speaking skills, and time management
- Explanation of GFWC resources, materials, and assistance
- Discussions on GFWC policies, procedures, and parliamentary law
- Tips and techniques for pursuing leadership opportunities
For LEADS resources, go to “L” in “My Digital Library” after logging in to the GFWC Member Portal.
Criteria for LEADS Participation
It is highly recommended that each State Federation LEADS candidate meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrates leadership capabilities at the club level as an active club president, club officer, or club project or committee chairman
- Exhibits a commitment to the Federation
- Exhibits an understanding of the GFWC mission of community service, illustrated by programs and projects in which she is or has been involved
- Demonstrates leadership skills, including, but not limited to, organization, responsibility, trustworthiness, enthusiasm, and flexibility
- Exhibits an interest in and willingness to pursue higher leadership positions in GFWC
- Agrees to share information gained from participation in LEADS with others in the state federation
- Understands and accepts potential expenses involved in participation
- Has not held elected positions at or beyond the state level (this criterion is recommended in order to encourage potential leaders at the club level to apply)
- Has not attended a previous LEADS program. Members are eligible to attend only once
Expenses
GFWC demonstrates its commitment to training leaders by funding a portion of the expenses of candidates who are members of per capita dues paying clubs. State Federations may consider underwriting a portion of an attendee’s expenses. LEADS candidates are asked to be responsible for a portion of their expenses as an affirmation of their personal commitment to the leadership development and training. LEADS participants are responsible for making their own travel and lodging arrangements.
- Travel and lodging stipend of $325.00.
- Lunch during the LEADS program (no registration fee required).
- Checks will be distributed to candidates upon attendance and completion of the seminar.
International Affiliates
One attendee from each International Affiliate is welcome to apply and participate in LEADS at a cost of $60.00, the GFWC stipend for travel and lodging allowance do not apply.
Incoming Leaders Training Seminar (ILTS)
Leaders and potential leaders receive training from GFWC at many levels of the Federation. A firm foundation of skills and knowledge enables competent and committed leaders to move GFWC purposefully into the future.
ILTS is focused on introducing incoming Region Presidents, State Presidents, and State Directors of Junior Clubs to the resources available to them from GFWC. The seminar includes introductory information about GFWC programs, partners, and materials; Board of Directors calendar and responsibilities; departmental resources and areas of staff expertise; helpful information on subjects useful to planning and organizing an administration at the region and state level; and the opportunity to meet and interact with others assuming the same role in the next administration.