Leadership Somerset Class of 2011 Applications Due Sept. 15

Applicants are being sought for the Leadership Somerset Class of 2011. The goal of the program is to develop an active network of informed, concerned citizens and to expand participants' knowledge of the issues and challenges facing Somerset County.

Participants enhance their leadership skills through active participation in class projects. The application deadline for the year-long program is Wednesday, Sept. 15.

"We encourage individuals who are interested in becoming leadership resources for their communities to apply for this program," Peter S. Palmer, co-liaison of the Leadership Somerset program, said in a release on the Somerset County Web site. "Leadership Somerset members challenge themselves and others to seek solutions to community needs. "

Established in 2000, Leadership Somerset focuses on a variety of program topics, including the economy, government, human services, housing and community development, arts/culture/heritage, healthcare, justice, environment, life-long learning, diversity and leadership skills.

"Leadership Somerset fellows have access to a network of key community leaders and a greater awareness of available resources in Somerset County," Freeholder Patricia Walsh, co-liaison of the program, also said in the release. "This program has brought a greater understanding of the issues facing Somerset County's diverse population to a group of 247 new community leaders."

Sessions are held once a month, from January through December, on the third Wednesday. The classes, which are held at various locations throughout the county, start at about 8 a.m. and end by 5 p.m.

The majority of the cost to attend the year-long program is underwritten by the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders. Leadership Somerset participants are asked to contribute a program fee of $250 for the year, which includes participation in all twelve sessions and meals. Limited scholarships based on financial need are available. A diverse group of applicants will be selected in October to begin the program in January.

Leadership Somerset is sponsored by Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Somerset County Business Partnership, Raritan Valley Community College, Somerset County United Way, Business and Education Alliance Inc., and Ethicon Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company.

For more information or to receive an application, call 908-231-7040 or email LeadershipSomerset@co.somerset.nj.us. The application can be found on Leadership Somerset's Website as well.