Leadership Development

About MDLI

Step Up to Leadership is a hands-on learning experience. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences with the group so that each person can learn from the successes (and failures) of others. Incorporating these individual experiences, the instructor uses various techniques to help facilitate resolutions to real-life problems.

Step Up to Leadership is looking for:

• People who are willing to assume the responsibilities of board membership
• People who want to work well in groups and develop strong working partnerships
• People striving to be good leaders

Our Goals:

• Understand board responsibilities, the parliamentary procedure, running a community meeting and public speaking tips
• Understand themselves and others
• Learn how to build strong relationships in a safe and fun environment

This program is offered for $100 to people who are interested in making a difference in their communities and willing to commit to attending all 12 sessions. Each session is 2½ hours long and includes a light meal. Sessions take place on one evening per week from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Locations will vary from week to week.
Step Up To Leadership is an initiative of 100 Black men of Greater South Bend, Inc. For more information, please call Arnold Sallie at 574-271-9799.

12 Session Curriculum

Session 1: Come As You Are

• Program orientation
• Value of grassroots participation
• Diversity and team building
• Self-awareness and empowerment

Session 2: Planning For Your Passion

• Identifying your passion and where to make your community contribution
• Setting goals, exploring values, and identifying personal strengths
• Importance of a vision

Session 3: Team Up

• Collaborative leadership
• Phases of group dynamics
• Explore power and trust

Session 4: Understanding Diversity

• Deeper understanding of diversity
• Social perpetuation of injustice
• Methods to combat prejudice and institutionalize injustice

Session 5: Embracing Diversity

• Building relationships for an inclusive community
• Identifying and respecting uniqueness
• The importance of effective communication

Session 6: All Aboard: The Legalities

• How nonprofits work
• Understanding legal standards board members must follow
• Roles and responsibilities for board members

Session 7: All Aboard: The Practicalities

• How to be an effective board member
• How to review budgets and financial reports
• Preparing to join a board

Session 8: Meeting Manners and Matters

• How to plan and conduct meetings
• Basics of parliamentary procedure as explained in Robert’s Rules of Order
• Understanding the importance of meeting decorum

Session 9: Conflict as Opportunity

• Understanding conflict
• Anger management
• Process for resolving conflict

Session 10: Speak Up, Speak Out

• Tips to speak effectively and persuasively
• Types of speeches
• Impromptu public speaking

Session 11: Resumé Writing & Social Networking

• Writing a resumé
• Social networking for career advancement

Session 12: Stepping Out

• Celebrate your learning experience
• Make a commitment to public service and leadership

Who should participate?

People under the age of 40 that possess a desire to cultivate their leadership skills, capacities, and roles within the community.

How much does it cost

Small tuition fee of $100 for the 12 week program. A complimentary meal will be served at each session.

When and where are the sessions conducted?

The sessions are conducted by college professors or seasoned professionals at the host convener's campus or office headquarters on one evening per week from 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

When are the sessions scheduled to start?

Sessions begin in April and will continue for 12 weeks.

How to apply?

Download an Application

Please submit your resumé and application to the following: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Applications for the April session will be accepted through March 31.
Please do not hesitate to contact us (574-303-8702) if you have any questions or would like more information.

100 Black Men of Greater South Bend
Education Committee
2043 South Bend Ave., PMB 345
South Bend, IN 46637