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What Participants Are Saying

Watch our video, and listen to what nonprofit executives have to say about their experience in the Courage to Lead program. >Full size view

"I have returned from each Courage to Lead retreat more connected to my sources of energy, more centered in my inner self, and more ready to do the next big thing in front of me."

— Kathleen McShane,
    Pacific School of
    Religion

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    Providing leadership training, nurturing and renewal for nonprofit executive leaders.

    Those of us engaged in leadership, community service, and social change know the challenge of sustaining ourselves and our commitment to deeply held values and beliefs. The more passionate we are about our work, the more vital it is that we take time to renew our own spirits — to reflect on the wellsprings of our service to others — to reconnect who we are with what we do.  And in this process, we also benefit from the development of a trusted peer group for mutual support and inspiration.  The Courage to Lead® program is designed to provide just this type of nurturing environment for nonprofit executive leaders. Developed by Parker J. Palmer, Ph.D. and the Center for Courage & Renewal, the Courage to Lead retreat series model focuses neither on technique, nor on society's needs, but on renewing the inner lives of leaders.

    Courage to Lead is a year-long leadership and renewal program that consists of five quarterly two-day retreats and monthly small group Leader Circles.  Each group includes 20-25 nonprofit executive leaders.  And once participants have completed the program, they become eligible to participate in our Courage to Lead alumni program.

    Retreats are held in Santa Barbara at the La Casa de Maria retreat center, just minutes from tranquil beaches. Amidst towering ancient oaks with views of the mountains beyond, Courage to Lead retreats provide space and quiet so that we can begin to hear our inner voice. The practice of reflection, journaling, and deep listening are part of the fabric of our approach. Working in such a space, participants gain opportunities to renew personal identity, professional integrity, and vocational vitality. Meeting quarterly in retreat with a group of other nonprofit leaders provides the opportunity to build a deep and trusted community of peers.  And our monthly Leader Circles allow participants to continue the work and reinforce their learning between meetings in a small group environment.

    The Courage to Lead program:
     • Renews heart, mind and spirit through exploration of the inner life of leaders
     • Provides a rare opportunity to slow down and reflect
     • Explores practices that help sustain one's vocational vitality
     • Builds a safe and trustworthy community of peers