Leadership Akron, Torchbearers Creating Win-Win’s

Last summer, Leadership Akron and Torchbearers signed an agreement to work more closely together. We anticipated cooperating on programming, fund development, communications, and more. As we prepare to renew the agreement for another term, it’s a good time to take stock of what’s happened in the first year of this stronger relationship.

Probably the most noticeable result of this year’s work together is the new and improved TB College, the leadership development program for members of Torchbearers. Leadership Akron surveyed our counterparts around the country that have established programs for young leaders, and worked with Torchbearers’ leadership to identify the topics that would be most valuable to them. In addition to featuring new topics, TB College also became more rigorous, with clearer expectations for attendance.

As momentum gathered, Torchbearers accelerated their application process. In January, they welcomed 30 new recruits to be the first cohort in “TB College 2.0”, increasing their membership by 50%. In January, the new class got underway with teambuilding and orientation activities. Other sessions will feature skill-building in areas like communication, generational dynamics, and boardsmanship. Many will feature Leadership Akron alumni as the “faculty” of TB College.

Beyond the development of TB College, the first year has seen leaders from both organization working together in a variety of ways. Joint fundraising calls have advanced relationships for both Leadership Akron and Torchbearers among funders. And last year, 20+ Torchbearers got together with an Leadership Akron alum of their choice for one-on-one conversations about their professional and community lives. Torchbearers are working with our alumni and students on each Junior Leadership Akron (JLA) program day to help lead conversations on leadership. And next weekend, JLA, Torchbearers, and LAAA members will work side-by-side, rolling up their sleeves together for projects in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

As participants in both organizations continue working together, trust and confidence continue to grow among both organizations. Talks are already underway for a renewed agreement that will extend the collaboration for a longer term. Stay tuned as we identify new ways to create win-win-win’s for Leadership Akron, Torchbearers, and most importantly, for our Akron community.