United Way of Berks Leadership Programs Celebrate Graduates

Leadership Berks and Blueprint for Leadership graduates.

Leadership Berks and Blueprint for Leadership graduate 42 individuals now trained to better serve in nonprofit leadership roles

United Way of Berks County recognized and celebrated its Blueprint For Leadership (BFL) and Leadership Berks graduates at its Graduation Event on Thursday at the DoubleTree Hotel in Reading.

Leadership Berks trains and develops individuals to serve in nonprofit leadership roles within Berks County. It is highly valued by Berks County employers, recognizing the increased skills and experiences gained by graduates. It is an experiential program, which expands the candidate’s professional and community leadership skills. The curriculum is delivered over a 7-month period and is taught by business and community leaders, along with content expert instructors. The 2023 program is graduating 29 individuals.

Blueprint for Leadership is a unique and professional development program designed as a 7-week training opportunity for individuals representing our community’s under-represented communities as they develop skills to serve in a leadership role with an area nonprofit. This year, 13 participants employed by varied local companies, participated in a series of sessions focused on leadership and communication skills, roles and responsibilities of nonprofit board/committee members and nonprofit board governance.

“Through the Leadership Berks and Blueprint for Leadership programs, we engage talent and commitment, and in turn, help develop future community leaders. Program graduates possess the spirit, passion and dedication needed to help lead community change,” shares Tammy White, president at United Way of Berks County.

More than 150 guests are expected, which includes program mentors and participants, sponsoring company leadership, as well as members of the advisory committee and others.