HISTORY

In early 2007, Community Futures West Yellowhead (CFWY) identified a need for locally available leadership training. This need was based on observations made in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. Leadership West Yellowhead began as a project of CFWY. The program was conceived as a means of developing a wider base of leadership across the region. Seed funding was received from Western Economic Diversification Canada, through the Rural Community Economic Development (RCED) Initiative, as well as from the Rural Secretariat, and Alberta Employment Immigration & Industry.

Community Futures West Yellowhead continues to support the program as its host organization. They generously provide management, office space, meeting space, use of office equipment, office supplies, and staff time.

In 2007, six municipalities across the region joined forces to support Leadership West Yellowhead’s first three years of operation. The Towns of Edson, Grande Cache, and Hinton, the Municipality of Jasper, Woodlands County, and Yellowhead County have each committed $5,000/year for 3 years to the program. This provision of stable funding is a key component to ensuring the success of the program as it establishes itself in the region.

In 2008, Leadership West Yellowhead hosted its first community leadership program. A group of 12 motivated and engaged emerging leaders participated in the 7 month-long program. The Class of 2008 were drawn from across the region, and included representatives from the public, private, and non-profit sectors.

In October 2008, Leadership West Yellowhead was honoured with the Gold Minister's Award for Innovation and Excellence at the Community Futures Network of Alberta's Annual Symposium. This award recognizes the program's innovative nature and high quality.

In April 2009, a new group of enthusiastic and empowered citizens from across the region joined together to form Leadership West Yellowhead's Class of 2009.

Leadership West Yellowhead looks forward to being part of the region’s long-term solution for community capacity-building, diversification, and leadership in the years to come.