Bergen Volunteers Celebrates 18 Years of Bergen LEADS
[HACKENSACK, N.J. - June 17, 2024] – Bergen Volunteers celebrated the 18th anniversary of its distinguished professional development program Bergen LEADS this month. Since 2006, Bergen LEADS has been at the forefront of cultivating community leaders dedicated to making meaningful changes within Bergen County.
Bergen LEADS’ unparalleled curriculum, immersive learning experiences, and exclusive access to the region’s decision-makers have gleaned the program recognition from regional executives and business leaders. LEADS participants meet with industry leaders such as Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Zur, Holy Name Medical Center President Michael Maron, and SHARP. The program serves as a launchpad for those committed to fostering positive change within their communities.
Notable alumni include Bogota Mayor Daniele Fede. “There are so many accomplishments to blame on LEADS,” said Cervino, alluding to the program’s infamous “Blame it on Bergen LEADS” networking motto. “They range from joining the Bogota Rescue Squad and becoming Deputy Chief to being elected as a council person twice, and then the first female Mayor in Bogota. My civic engagement escalated due to Bergen LEADS.”
Through its unique civic engagement and leadership approach, Bergen LEADS provides the knowledge, resources, and connections needed to effect positive change. Alumni are empowered to join school boards and nonprofit boards, take charge of employee resource groups (ERGs), and pursue leadership roles in their community involvement and professional careers.
Former Demarest Mayor Ray Cwinksi, Rutherford Councilwoman Carolyn Smith, former Waldwick Councilman Paul Schatz, and Teaneck Board of Education President Sebastian Rodriguez also count themselves as Bergen LEADS graduates. “It gave me the opportunity to work with and also develop personal relationships with many leaders in Bergen County,” said Rodriguez, praising the benefits of the program’s resources. “I hope that as I continue to develop my professional and personal ventures, I can continue to work with past, present, and future Bergen LEADers!”
The class of 2024 graduated this month with the context and tools they need to drive success both in their careers and within their communities. Applications to join the class of 2025 are open until July 30. Individuals who live or work in Bergen County and want to level up their community knowledge, expand their network, and understand local resources are encouraged to apply.
For more information on Bergen LEADS and to apply, interested applicants can visit www.bergenvolunteers.org/bergenleads or contact Bergen LEADS Coordinator Rachel Feinmark at refinmark@bergenvolunteers.org or 201.489.5176.
About Bergen Volunteers:
Founded in 1966, Bergen Volunteers is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing vital community needs through innovative programs and partnerships. Our mission is to provide human service and training programs to improve lives and strengthen communities. For more information about Bergen Volunteers and its transformative work, please visit www.bergenvolunteers.org.
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