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Q1 |
What
are predictors of success of such a program? |
Three key factors
are connection with a community leadership
program, co-sponsorship by a
college or university, and
community collaboration. Senior
leadership programs that are
started in collaboration with
an existing community leadership
program do well because
community members readily
understand the concept. Programs
that are co-sponsored by a
college or university can share
the institution’s credentials and,
sometimes, its space. Community
collaboration is essential in
starting any new
community-based program to maximize
support and minimize appearance
of competition.
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Q2 |
What
are benefits of senior leadership to the community? |
Communities need
the energies and expertise of an expanding
volunteer group. With an
aging society we have the
opportunity to tap the major
contributions of experience and
leadership skills of older
adults while providing meaningful
involvement that facilitate
personal well-being and
productiveness.
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Q3 |
Is
this just for large urban areas? |
Certainly
metropolitan areas may have a larger older adult
population but smaller
communities may reap greater benefits
from a senior leadership
program. Several rural counties in
North Carolina helped to
address the growing chasm between
native and newcomer older
adults by encouraging them to come
together in a senior leadership
program where they could focus
on community issues of mutual
concern. Many rural
communities are experiencing a
growing population of older
adults. |
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Q4 |
What
community groups support senior leadership programs? |
In North
Carolina senior leadership programs have been
sponsored by colleges and
universities, senior centers,
chambers of commerce and
existing leadership programs.
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Q5 |
What
is the cost of such a program to the sponsoring agency? |
Costs vary
depending on the size and complexity of the
program, how often during the
year it is offered and what kind
of follow-up activities or
projects are planned. The program
needs and office (telephone,
computer), printing and postage
budget and part-time director
and secretary. The participant
fees can cover the other costs
of the program.
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