Scholarship Offered for Bergen LEADS

The Meadowlands Regional Chamber of Commerce (MRC), a leading business service organization in the South Bergen area, is offering scholarships to Chamber members who are selected to participate in Bergen LEADS, an innovative, 10-month learning and leadership program for adults who live or work in Bergen County.

Men and women from the private sector, nonprofit agencies and government organizations, as well as community volunteers, are encouraged to submit an application form, available at www.bergenleads.org. Tuition for the program is $2,000; the Meadowlands Chamber will offer $500 scholarships for up to four of its members who are accepted into the Class of 2017. MRCC members are invited to contact the Chamber at 201-939-0707 for more information about the scholarship opportunity.

“In order to grow a strong economy in the greater Meadowlands of Bergen County, we will need dedicated and strong leaders,” says Jim Kirkos, CEO of the Meadowlands Chamber. “The Bergen LEADS program is the perfect incubator to identify those leaders and the program is a natural extension of our advocacy.”

Bergen LEADS is a program of Bergen Volunteer Center, which has successfully engaged Bergen County residents in civic life for 50 years. Bergen LEADS - led by former Bergen County Executive William “Pat” Schuber - carries on that tradition by providing an extraordinarily rich, diverse and stimulating program focusing on topical issues, leadership and community trusteeship.

“We’re seeking individuals from all ethnic, racial and socio-economic backgrounds who espouse different political, religious and social views,” says Mr. Schuber. “In short, we want our class to represent and celebrate the rich diversity of Bergen County.”

Participants will be selected on the basis of demonstrated interest in the community, achievement in their professions and/or volunteer activities, and potential for responsible and effective leadership. Applications for the Class of 2017 are available at www.bergenleads.org and are due on April 10, 2016. For questions about the application, contact Beanne DeGuzman at bdeguzman@bergenvolunteers.org or 201-489-9454 ext. 203.

Funding for Bergen LEADS is provided by participant tuition plus generous contributions from individuals and area corporations and foundations.

Bergen Volunteer Center strengthens the community by connecting people through service and developing civic leaders.