Academy graduates, their guests, and alumni gathered at Village Hall on the Common for a reception in honor of the Class of 2023.
The graduation began with Executive Director, Helen Lemoine (1993) presenting a photo retrospective of the Academy year – starting with the opening retreat and highlighting each monthly program day. Graduates enjoyed reflecting on their experiences, and guests and alumni learned about the activities, places and topics that made up the Academy year.Class project team representatives presented overviews of their work…helping residents at Heritage/Assisted Living get ready for spring gardening season, a community cleanup in Ashland, and a weekend of volunteering for a Special Olympics Massachusetts event.
Diplomas were presented to each graduate with lots of cheering, laughing and fun memories.Leadership MetroWest is proud of this accomplished group of leaders from around the region who now become part of the impressive LMW alumni network.
Building social cohesion and resilience
Engaging in collaborative development projects fosters social cohesion within communities.
Working together towards common goals strengthens bonds among community members, leading to greater resilience in the face of challenges.
Socially cohesive communities are better equipped to overcome obstacles and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring sustainability in the long run.
Community-led development is about recognizing that the people most affected by development challenges are also the ones best equipped to address them.
– Leadership MetroWest
Leveraging local resources and knowledge
- Community-led development harnesses local resources and knowledge, maximizing their potential for positive impact.
- By utilizing locally available materials and skills, communities can reduce reliance on external assistance and promote self-reliance.
- Leveraging local resources and knowledge not only enhances the effectiveness of development initiatives but also fosters a sense of pride and ownership among community members.
By engaging in dialogue and collaboration, we can further explore the potential of community-led development in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for all.