Orange Community Services Department

Senior Leadership Program

What is the Senior Leadership Program?

The Senior Leadership Program is a premier program of the Orange Community Services Department in conjunction with the Leadership Center at the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. The purpose of the Senior Leadership Program is to identify aspiring community leaders over the age of 55 and support their growth through leadership training and community education so they may serve as catalysts for positive change in their own community. In addition to leadership workshops, topics covered include community history and development, environment, education, community policing, communications and the media, the arts, Connecticut State government, town government, and regional issues.

How does the Senior Leadership Program Work?

Over the course of 9 months, the Senior Leadership Program offers to those accepted into the program an increased understanding of the issues that are shaping our town and region with access to decision-makers and key persons in the community. In addition to attending the sessions, participants must participate in a group community service project of their own choosing.

What’s in it for me?

Quite simply, the Senior Leadership Program offers your best opportunity to network with other persons in the Orange community. In addition to having access to key decision-makers and community leaders, you’ll get an insider’s view of issues that are shaping our community.

How much does it cost?

The cost of the Senior Leadership Program is $100 for the 9-month program. Funds received from community grants and the town supplement the tuition for the program. The $100 tuition may be paid by the individual or by the organization that is sponsoring the individual.

What are the Senior Leadership Proposed Meeting Dates?

An informational meeting is held in the spring. Applications are accepted during

early summer. Class members are chosen in late summer for the next class. Class

sessions are held on one Wednesday a month (dates change each year) from September to

April, with graduation held in May.

What if I have to miss sessions?

We realize that retired persons often spend several months in another state. We

will allow one or two absences for approved reasons.

For additional information or for an application form for the Senior Leadership Program, contact the Orange Community Services Department, 525 Orange Center Road, Orange, CT 06477 or call Joanne Byrne, Senior Services Coordinator at (203-891-2154).