Enroll in the 2015-2016 Rural Economic & Leadership Development Program Today

August 6, 2015 – By #South Dakota Farmer Union

Farmers Union Rural Economic and Leadership (REAL) Development Program is looking for committed leaders from farms, ranches and rural communities across South Dakota to enroll in the 2015-2016 class. “Farmers Union is committed to developing leaders within rural communities,” explains Erin Wilcox, SDFU Rural Development Coordinator of the program Farmers Union sponsors. “Whether you are interested in serving as a board member, thinking about participating in local or state politics or taking the next step personally or professionally, REAL is designed to help individuals advance their leadership and communication skills.”

In its seventh year, REAL was designed to fill a void many working on farms, ranches or for small rural businesses experience. “Here’s the thing, those working in corporate America often have access to professional development training sponsored by their companies. Small businesses or family farming or ranching operations in South Dakota don’t have the capital to invest in this type of training, so Farmers Union developed REAL,” says Doug Sombke, SDFU President.

This adult leadership program is open to Farmers Union members across South Dakota with the purpose of improving leadership and communication skills.

 REAL is $50 for members and non-members. Along with enrollment in REAL, non-members receive a one year free Farmers Union membership.

 “This program provided me with a well-rounded approach to leadership and touched on many different areas that I encounter as a community leader,” said Kellie Ecker, NESD Business Advisor, South Dakota Manufacturing & Technology Solutions. “Through the interaction with my REAL classmates, I found my long-held beliefs were confirmed, leadership development is not just a workplace phenomenon. This group of individuals really is committed to making their communities better as well.”

 Throughout the year, REAL hosts three two-day sessions. Each with a unique focus, the sessions are packed with top notch presenters and industry experts covering topics ranging from identifying your personal strengths and how to best implement those strengths when working with others to understanding policy development and how to effectively communicate with the media.

 “Each session is carefully developed to help participants grow personally and professionally; improve their leadership and communication skills; as well as become more involved in their communities,” Wilcox says. “Although each session has a unique focus, this year we are trying something new and will be bringing some speakers back to build upon their presentation over multiple sessions. We are excited about the ability this gives our class members to really dig deep into topics.”

 REAL is limited to 30 class members. Sessions will be held in November 2015, February 2016 and March 2016. If you are interested in being a part of the 2015-2016 class, contact Wilcox at [email protected] or call her, 605-352-6761 ext. 118. 

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Last Modified: 08/06/2015 7:24:50 am MDT