Pender County is launching its inaugural 2025 Citizens Leadership Academy, providing residents with an opportunity to engage with local government, learn about county operations, and promote a culture of public service. The academy, beginning in March 2025, will feature multiple interactive sessions highlighting various county departments and agencies.
The Citizens Leadership Academy aims to boost transparency, encourage civic participation, and enhance communication across Pender County. Each session will include hands-on learning, tours, and discussions, giving participants an insider’s view of county functions and services.
Academy Goals
The Citizens Leadership Academy seeks to achieve the following:
Increasing Citizen Knowledge
Participants will gain a thorough understanding of Pender County’s structure and functions. The academy will cover the roles and responsibilities of different departments and agencies, decision-making processes affecting daily life, and ways for citizens to actively shape their community
Empowering Community Participation
By offering insights into local government operations, the academy aims to empower residents to get involved in civic activities, such as attending public meetings and participating in community initiatives. Attendees will be encouraged to take ownership and responsibility for the well-being of Pender County.
Program Highlights
Participants will have the opportunity to:
Tour the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center.
Learn about emergency management and fire services in Pender County.
Explore health and human services programs.
Discover the workings of public safety and the judicial system.
And much more.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a Pender County resident.
Be at least 18 years old.
There is no fee for enrollment.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the 2025 Citizens Leadership Academy is Nov. 25, 2024, at 5 p.m.
For more information and to apply, visit Pender County Citizens Leadership Academy webpage.