So why is it that Fredericksburg is thriving, while other small rural Texas towns are struggling to keep doors open?
One word. Leadership!
Clearly, that’s simplifying things, but leadership is one of the key elements this town has been blessed with. From our founding fathers that created the infamous Peace Treaty to today’s leaders collaborating on future plans, leadership is something we not only appreciate— we cultivate.
Over 30 years ago, the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce began its “Leadership Gillespie County” (LGC) program as part of its mission to promote a positive growing business community. Today, it boasts over 600 graduates!
What is LGC? LGC is a two year commitment, and is designed to be a learning experience requiring planning, active participation, proactive involvement, team building and self discipline. LGC begins with a mixer in August attended by LGC Alumni to welcome the new class, continues with a retreat, nine day-long education sessions and a class social. The program culminates with the completion of a class project and graduation.
The education session topics are:
- Local Government
- History & Culture
- Healthcare & Human Services
- Education
- Business, Industry & Agriculture
- Emergency Services
- State Government-Austin
- Tourism & Media
- Community Infrastructure
The purpose of the program is to:
- Expand the network of potential future leaders of Fredericksburg and Gillespie County
- Enhance the participants’ knowledge of the structure and operation of local businesses, schools, the hospital and government, civic and charitable organizations
- Introduce the participants to local business owners, educators and school administrators, hospital management and staff, government officials and the leaders of civic and charitable organizations
- Foster a better understanding of local issues and needs
- Develop leadership and team building skills.
Leadership Gillespie County is a great way to build your own leadership skills, find out more about your strengths and weaknesses, learn how to work with others and make new lifelong friends. There’s team building, fellowship, and a sense of pride in being an active member of the community. It can open doors to new ways of thinking, reveal new volunteer opportunities and uncover a deep desire to serve. Many graduates have used the experience to improve their own businesses. Many have become city leaders. Many have adapted what they learned into their own households.
There is a program fee and an application process as the class size is limited. Program eligibility requires all applicants to have lived or worked in Gillespie County at least one year. You must be able to attend the nine, day-long classes, and willing to participate in an overnight retreat as well as the class project. Most businesses are supportive of this program and may even pay the fee for an employee, knowing the value it will bring back to their own company.
The Chamber of Commerce begins recruitment at the end of June and there will be information posted. The deadline for applications is August 1. Selected participants are notified shortly after and the Kick Off Mixer is in August.
Understanding how the city and county works “behind the scenes” not only provides knowledge, it nurtures a vested, collaborative community. At Fredericksburg Realty, we not only sell Fredericksburg and Gillespie County, but we also believe in nurturing the future of this community. So whether you just moved here and need to wait a year, or are a long-time resident, you might want to put Leadership Gillespie County on your radar.
Whether you are considering selling or acquiring property, we would love to be your trusted real estate partner and advisor. At Fredericksburg Realty and Texas Ranch Realty, we stand by our word, our authenticity and treat each client like family.
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