Leadership Portland’s goal is to create a community of engaged and informed leaders who are inspired to make a difference in the city of Portland, Maine. The city and its people are the classroom. This comprehensive leadership program is a six-month experiential process for those who want to discover how the Portland community functions and how they can become engaged with that community. We will explore the places, programs, and people who make Portland a vibrant city. Participants will learn: How Portland functions; How to balance competing civic interests and opportunities; and How to connect to and lead critical enterprises. Target participants are people who care about Portland and want to make it a better city. They may be young or old, established or new residents, private citizens or members of the business, nonprofit or governmental communities. The program includes nine interactive days, starting with a team-building retreat, followed by sessions exploring government, justice, business, health, the environment, racial equity and culture. Scholarships will support creating a diverse class with emerging leaders, new Mainers and new to Portland as well as long-time residents. Program objectives: 
 Develop knowledgeable and engaged leaders who can support each other in building a stronger community. Explore issues and opportunities across a variety of topics and cultures.