About the Leadership Lab Program
DeRondal Bevly, Mentor | Cathy Yen, Mentor
Through the Lab, you will curate your own leadership journey with a series of in-person and virtual classes, a ten-month program that offers personal/professional coaching, skills development and a curriculum based on the most urgent needs of our diverse West Cook community.
The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation’s Leadership Lab Program celebrates and supports the diverse set of people and skills required to make lasting change in our community. As part of the program, you commit to an ongoing journey of community leadership, identifying core issues while setting personal goals for growth and engagement.
We will provide you with a set of core leadership competencies that belong in a community leader’s toolkit. Working with our coaching team, you will identify areas for your own professional growth, learn about opportunities for local involvement; and create your personal action plan to become the leader you know you can be.
Fellows Leave With:
- Curated leadership action plan
- Leadership skills
- Membership in the Leadership League
- Toolkit to address systemic issues
- Better understanding of regional western Cook County issues
- View of critical issues through a community lens
- Access to Leadership Library
- Certificate of completion
- Capstone Conference and Graduation Event
Program Details
- Program runs September 2023 - June 2024
- Meetings once a month on Fridays: 9am-12pm
- Expected time commitment 8-10 hrs per month
- Self-directed sessions offered throughout the month, including a mix of in-person and virtual workshops
- Member activities including ”Member Exchanges," Book Club, Movie Night, Podcasts and more…
Tuition Information and Payments
Leadership Lab tuition is $2,000, of which $200 is tax-deductible. We encourage your employer’s sponsorship. For individuals seeking financial assistance, partial funding is available. Please contact
Click here for ONLINE PAYMENTS
Or, mail checks to:
OPRF Community Foundation
1049 Lake Street, Suite 204
Oak Park, IL 60301
Memo: Leadership Lab Tuition
Credit cards are accepted over the phone.
Contact Cathy Craddock, Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation: 708-848-1560
