When you hear the word leader, what comes to mind? Is it the president of the bank, the principal of a school or the head of a major corporation? Those are all leadership roles, but leadership is so much more than that.
Anyone can be a leader. Leadership involves inspiring people, helping people to reach their true potential, building relationships, decision making and setting a good example.
Leadership is what makes communities thrive. Leadership programs help build those leaders and give them the knowledge and skills needed to further strengthen their community. Over the past year, members of the Adair County Extension Council have discussed the need for leadership development. Thus, a new program, Step Out And Rise, was created.
SOAR is a leadership program designed for anyone who wants to further their leadership skills and learn more about topics such as economic development and local government.
“SOAR sessions will rely on support from local businesses, state and local government, and local leaders to help participants become more aware of our community, governance, and economy,” said Adair County Extension Agent Nick Roy.
The program will be a nine-month program beginning July 18, 2025 and ending April 17, 2026 with no meeting in December. It will be held on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants in the program will be required to attend a fiscal court meeting, a city council meeting, and participate in a community service project. Each month there will be a tour of a relevant local facility.
SOAR aims to help build leaders for our community, to prepare anyone to be a leader and be involved in the community in whatever way they choose. Participants will gain real world experience in this well-rounded program that will offer insight into agriculture, government, education, health services and other topics.
Applications for the SOAR program are available on the Adair County Extension Office website or may be picked up at the extension office at 409 Fairground St. Applications are due by June 20. The cost of the program is $100, which covers program materials and meals for each meeting.
“We encourage business and organizations to identify and sponsor individuals who they feel can grow into future leaders. We also encourage individuals who have an interest in seeking elected positions to participate in this program,” said Tony Rose, Adair County extension agent.
