Cortez Invests in Solving the Same-10-People Problem

When it comes to solving community problems in Cortez, often the same individuals step forward to lead community responses and projects. One Cortez local with years of experience in community building recognized why so few new voices were being heard: Montezuma County’s lack of leadership trainers, leadership development opportunities, and meaningful peer networking opportunities meant individuals who might want to step forward don’t have the skills to feel comfortable doing so. After she conducted several listening sessions with others in the community, the idea for the Montezuma Leadership Network was born. Led by a community development graduate student at Adams State and seven Cortez locals, MLN will develop and connect rising leaders through yearly cohorts, continuing education programs, and peer networking. LOR’s funding will be used to launch the program in its inaugural year, including supporting training and project management, meeting costs, marketing, and the creation of a website.

This project is fiscally sponsored by Onward! A Legacy Foundation. 

Impact

55 locals attended the first community listening event.

In The News

New Leadership Group Forms in Montezuma County (Cortez Journal)