Boys Town is dedicated to saving children and healing families, but what you might not know is that we are also dedicated to fostering leaders within our community. That's why we want to give a big congratulations to Pat Garcia, Boys Town Iowa Community Engagement Developer, for being a graduate of Leadership Council Bluffs Class 29.
Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Leadership Council Bluffs Alumni Association, designed the Leadership Council Bluffs program to identify, motivate and inform future leaders in the Council Bluffs community. Applicants were selected for this yearlong, graduate-level program based on their leadership potential and commitment to their community.
"I learned about my leadership style and personality traits that may have a different effect on my leadership with certain groups and individuals," said Garcia. "Being aware of these traits and understanding others' perspectives and passions allows for clearer communication." Garcia was also educated about the history of Council Bluffs, the economic development of Council Bluffs, health systems, public safety, county and city government, legislative policy and practice, and nonprofit/social services.
Along with the coursework, the program divided the group to work on a Community Trustee Project that will make a lasting impact on the community. Garcia's group developed an initiative to partner with VODEC (Vocational Development Center), an organization dedicated to provide services to peoples with disabilities, to host a reverse job fair. This event allowed persons with disabilities the opportunity to network with employers, get advice on resumes and establish internship and other employment opportunities.
"Pat's growth during this program has furthered his knowledge of the needs of our children and families in Iowa," said Debbie Orduna, Boys Town Iowa Executive Director. "He has served as a passionate, dedicated leader and has had a lasting impact on the Council Bluffs community."
This program not only gave Garcia the knowledge needed to enhance his leadership style, but also gave him a vast network of contacts for potential collaboration, positive relationships with others who uplift Council Bluffs and the opportunity to share Boy Town's mission and vision with the community he loves.
