Community Partnerships Leaders Program

Community Partnerships Leaders Program

Overview: The Community Partnerships Leadership Program (CoPaLS) is a new initiative created by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation with input from a number of organizations working to improve access to health here in Massachusetts. CoPaLS’ purpose is to strengthen the basic leadership skills among emerging community leaders and activists who are passionate about their work. CoPaLS meets weekly for 5 evening sessions conducted over two-months.

Program topics are:

• Determining and Setting Strategy for Successful Community Health Initiatives
• Building Collaborative Meetings
• Dealing with Conflict and Learning to Talk About It
• Working Collaboratively with the Press
• Impacting Policy

Participants:

• We are looking for applicants who are passionate about improving access to health in their communities by strengthening their skills in the topics areas listed above.
• A group of up to 20 highly-regarded applicants with recognized leadership potential will be selected to participate in CoPaLS.

Eligibility and Selection:

• Candidates for the program those people in the community who work closely with a community health center, advocacy group, or community based organization. The candidates are seen as emerging leaders and who would benefit by strengthening their skills in working with a variety of stakeholders.
• Selection will be based on completing an application, the individual’s commitment to attend all five sessions, and their goals of what they plan to do with the tools and network they gain through the program.

How to Apply:

• Applicants must complete the attached application package and submit to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2008.
• Applicants are encouraged to have a letter of endorsement of not more than a page from a not-for-profit organization serving the low income and uninsured here in Massachusetts.

Program Cost:

• The Foundation covers the tuition for the program, including the cost of sessions and other learning experiences, educational materials, and meals during the sessions.
• In addition the Foundation will assist with parking or transportation costs.
• Should assistance with reimbursement for child care be a necessity, the Foundation will help.
• Participants accepted into the program are requested to make a one time payment of $25. This is representative of the individual’s intention to take part in all five sessions of the program. The money is used to help defray the cost of materials and food.

Selection Timeline - 2008:
A Selection Panel made up of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation staff will evaluate the applications. Decisions of the Selection Committee are final.

September 18: Complete Application Materials due by 5 p.m.
September 23: Selection and Participant Notification
October 15: First session begins at Landmark Center