For people wanting to make a difference in their community, the Ankeny Leadership Institute (ALI) has the perfect opportunity. Applications for the 2012 ALI class are available online at www.AnkenyLeadership.org.

Developed by the City of Ankeny, Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce, Ankeny Economic Development Corporation and DMACC Business Resources (DBR), ALI is a 6-session program designed to foster engaged citizenship and community involvement. The comprehensive curriculum focuses on enhancing community knowledge, leadership skills, volunteerism and networking. Application deadline is August 1.

As part of the program, the class is challenged to develop community service projects. Two projects advanced during the 2011 session by Kerry Walter-Ashby (Ankeny Kiwanis Club president), Ryan Penning (Ankeny Parks & Recreation supervisor) and fellow ALI participants are now community-wide initiatives: Ankeny Backpack Buddies and the Ankeny Miracle Field/All-Inclusive Playground project.

Today a pilot program of Ankeny Backpack Buddies provides weekend supplemental food to chronically hungry students at East Elementary. And Ankeny MiraclePark is well on its way to realizing its $1 million fundraising goal – with more than $360,000 raised to date.

For the 2012 ALI class, local organizations are encouraged to nominate individuals who live or work in Ankeny and demonstrate leadership potential, motivation and a sincere commitment to the Ankeny community. Participants and organizations benefit from increased leadership skills, community exposure and goodwill.

“Whether recruiting for employment positions or civic commissions, local leaders look to ALI graduates,” said Julie Cooper, Ankeny Chamber Executive Director. “By honing highly-prized skills and creating opportunities,we’ve seen the program ‘ignite’ futures on personal, professional and community-wide levels.”

The 2012 session begins September 11. Tuition is $800 (partial scholarships may be available). Applications must be received by August 1. Space is limited! Application information and additional details are available at: www.AnkenyLeadership.org.