Insights from 12 Cities and a Decade of Alumni: How Leadership Programs Are Bridging Divides
NCLC Impact Survey - Over a decade of alumni from 12 community leadership programs throughout the U.S.
The Transformative Impact of Community Leadership Programs
As the 2024 election season fades into history, Americans are grappling with how to rebuild connections in an increasingly polarized world. While challenges persist, there’s a quiet but powerful movement reshaping communities and bridging divides: community leadership programs.
These programs, often operating in cities large and small across the nation, bring diverse groups of leaders together to better understand local issues, build cross-sector relationships, and inspire action for the greater good. But just how impactful are they?
The National Community Leadership Collaborative (NCLC) recently surveyed alumni from flagship programs representing 12 cities across the U.S. to quantify the difference these programs are making. The results speak volumes about the enduring value of civic leadership education.
Exceptional Results That Drive Change
The data from the NCLC survey underscores the transformative power of community leadership programs:
A Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 73:
NPS, a benchmark for customer satisfaction and loyalty, is widely used across industries to measure success. A score above 50 is excellent; anything over 70 is exceptional. With a 73, these programs not only meet but exceed expectations, demonstrating their value to alumni and the communities they serve.
Building Understanding:
97% of alumni reported gaining insights that helped them better understand the issues impacting their communities. Programs like these are critical in fostering informed, engaged citizens who can tackle local challenges with greater awareness.
Diversifying Networks:
92% of participants diversified their networks, building relationships across sectors and demographics. This cross-pollination of perspectives strengthens the fabric of a community, creating a shared sense of responsibility and collaboration.
Building Confidence and Skills to Lead:
83% grew in confidence to drive positive change in their community.
74% reported learning skills that made them more effective in their formal and informal leadership roles.
These outcomes highlight the programs’ success in empowering participants to step into leadership roles with greater impact.Driving Civic Engagement:
71% became active in new or deeper ways, such as board service, volunteerism, or running for public office. This ripple effect demonstrates how leadership training translates into real-world action.
Bridging Divides:
77% reported growth in their ability to communicate across differences—an increasingly vital skill in today’s polarized environment.
Diverse Cities, Shared Challenges, Unique Perspectives
One of the strengths of this survey lies in the diversity of the organizations and cities represented. The twelve programs surveyed span a wide range of geographic, cultural, and demographic contexts, including:
Urban hubs like Washington, D.C., Seattle, Austin, Atlanta, and Charlotte, where leaders navigate fast-paced, complex environments.
Mid-sized cities like Louisville, Cincinnati, Jacksonville, St. Louis, and Oklahoma City, each with its unique blend of challenges and opportunities.
Communities like Tallahassee, and St. Paul, where civic leadership often focuses on local engagement and public service.
This variety reflects the adaptability of leadership programs to meet the specific needs of their regions while advancing a shared mission of building stronger, more connected communities.
The alumni themselves also represent a wide demographic spectrum, from emerging leaders in their 20s to seasoned executives. This diversity ensures that participants leave the program with a broadened perspective and an appreciation for the value of working across age, racial, political, and professional lines.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
In an era where division often feels insurmountable, the ability to communicate and lead across differences is no longer optional—it’s essential. Leadership programs offer more than professional development; they cultivate the empathy, resilience, and skills necessary to unite communities and address critical issues collaboratively.
These programs’ success lies in their ability to not only develop individuals but also strengthen the ecosystems they touch. Alumni go on to serve on nonprofit boards, engage in public service, and bring diverse voices into decision-making spaces. This ripple effect creates stronger, more inclusive communities at every level.
Be Part of the Solution
Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a seasoned professional, or someone who wants to make a difference, there’s a community leadership program near you waiting to help you step into your potential. These programs aren’t just about learning—they’re about transforming yourself and your community for the better.
Join the national movement of leaders building bridges where others see walls.
To connect with community leadership programs and join this transformative movement, explore the following resources: