Find Out What It Takes To Be An Effective Leader

Professional development in the non-profit sector is a vital tool for strengthening organizational effectiveness. That’s why the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, in partnership with Lakehead University have made it a priority to offer new leadership training opportunities to the community leaders of Simcoe County. While business and community leaders may have access to skills-based leadership training, the YMCA’s Not-For-Profit Professional Development Certificate program focuses on the leadership capacity of the individual. The program explores what it takes to be an effective leader using academically sound research supported content. The program provides quality, cost-effective training that is distinctly suited to the needs of our leaders in the area.

Over 165 participants have completed Level 1 of the program from such organizations as – City of Orillia, Children’s Treatment Network, Canadian Red Cross, RVH Foundation, County of Simcoe, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, Ontario Provincial Police and more. Since the launch of the program in 2014, the Professional Development Certificate Program has made a positive impact in the not-for profit world.

What Participants Are Saying

 “Participating in Level 1 of the program really helped me reframe my personality traits in a positive light and helped me understand my leadership qualities. The speakers offered a great deal of insight into many pertinent issues, such as employer and donor relations, time management, group development, conflict resolution, mission based prioritization and many other topics. I would recommend the course to anyone.”
~ Nathan Sykes, Coalition Member, Youth Haven

“I have been to a number of trainings and fully believe the YMCA/Lakehead Leadership Program was the best, most honest and practical training experience that I have taken part in.”
~ Sarah, Level 1 Participant

“I just wanted to convey my appreciation for such an awesome learning experience! The expert panelists were from a variety of work sectors allowing us a glimpse into how they became leaders in their fields. Many similarities existed and we were free to ask question of them. This greatly enhanced our processing of the three days, and there were many opportunities to explore and reflect on our own practices. The experience left us wanting more and I’m looking forward to levels 2 and 3!”
~ Carolyn Walsh, M.Ed., Children’s Services Program Supervisor

Upcoming Dates

Level 1 of the certificate program is being offered from June 20 to 22, 2018 at Lakehead University Orillia campus and February 6-8, 2019 at YMCA Geneva Park and will focus on how personal strengths as a leader can contribute to a team and the goals of your organization. Participants will learn boundaries to manage stress and how to apply tools and concepts of communication that can improve processes and teamwork. The implementation of solutions to everyday problems will also be discussed.

The faculty and panelists combine academic rigor with real world experience and infuse the curriculum with fresh perspectives. For a list of the program’s faculty and panelists, click here.

Register Today!

For more information about the YMCA Professional Development Certificate Program and to register, please visit www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca/not-for-profit-registration/.