Leadership and Enhanced Assistance Program (LEAP) is a two-year program that helps groups "leap" forward to achieve significant internal goals.   Participating groups receive funding for consultants and training and support from ESC staff and opportunities to network with peer organizations from other parts of the country.

 
A three-person leadership team from the participating organizations attends a two and a half-day Orientation Workshop, where they assess their organization's strengths and weaknesses, receive training on how to lead organizational change, and learn from other environmental activists. After the orientation, the participating groups receive up to $10,000 to help with expenses related to large organizational development issues, such as but not limited to:

• Create a multi-year strategic plan with its staff, board and key stakeholders
• Prepare for major leadership transitions

• Develop a fundraising or business plan to hire more staff or replace foundation funds with other types of financial support

• Strengthen its ability to manage its internal financial, personnel or other management systems
• Design a communications and marketing plan to build membership and program impact

The LEAP funding covers up to 80% of the costs, mostly for trainer and consultant fees.  Before engaging in the work, the participating group's leadership team submits a detailed workplan and contracts with the consultant who will help them "leap" forward.  They can work with consultants of their own choosing, if the consultant has been approved by the Environmental Support Center.  We can help identify a short list of consultants for the group to choose from.  We provide ongoing advice and support as needed, and help participants stay in touch with each other in the course of the two years.  At the end of the program, the teams come together for a closing weekend to celebrate their accomplishments and plan their next steps.

More information on LEAP eligibility