Leadership through the East Alabama Chamber Foundation
About the East Alabama Chamber Foundation
The East Alabama Chamber Foundation is the driving force behind the Chamber’s mission to develop leaders and strengthen the communities we call home. As the Chamber’s 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Foundation creates impact through leadership programs, scholarships, and community-focused initiatives that help East Alabama thrive.
Through programs like LEADERSHIP East Alabama for professionals and Young Leaders of East Alabama for high school students, the Foundation equips participants with the skills, experiences, and connections needed to become engaged leaders in their schools, workplaces, and communities.
The Foundation also supports the next generation through the Young Citizens Awards Scholarship Program, which recognizes outstanding high school seniors in six categories of Art, Athletics, Academics, Career Tech, Community Service, and Journalism. Over the past eight years, the program has awarded approximately $90,000 in scholarships to students at Central High, Glenwood, Russell County High, and Smiths Station High.
In addition, the Foundation invests in economic and community development projects that make East Alabama more vibrant, connected, and beautiful — strengthening the region for future generations.
LEADERSHIP East Alabama
LEADERSHIP East Alabama is a leadership development program designed for emerging and established professionals across the community. Through hands-on experiences, community engagement, and leadership-building activities, participants gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities, industries, and challenges that shape East Alabama and the greater region while strengthening the skills needed to lead effectively in their organizations and communities.
The program is designed to connect leaders from diverse industries and backgrounds, creating opportunities for collaboration, relationship-building, and personal growth. Participants engage directly with local businesses, government leaders, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to better understand the region and the role leadership plays in its continued success.
By combining leadership development, community education, and real-world experiences, LEADERSHIP East Alabama helps prepare participants to become informed, engaged leaders who are equipped to make a lasting impact across East Alabama and beyond.
WHAT DOES A YEAR IN EAST ALABAMA LEADERSHIP LOOK LIKE?
Leadership Kickoff & Team-Building Experience
The program begins with a leadership and bonding experience designed to help participants connect with their classmates and build strong working relationships. Through leadership assessments, team-building exercises, scavenger hunts, problem-solving activities, and collaborative challenges, participants begin developing the communication and leadership skills that will guide them throughout the year.
Monthly Leadership Days (September–April)
From September through April, participants engage in one full program day each month. These experiences provide opportunities to explore the industries, organizations, and leaders that drive East Alabama and the region forward. Each month focuses on a different aspect of the community and regional leadership. Program days may include themes such as Economic Development, Healthcare, Education, Government & Public Policy, Public Safety, Workforce Development, Tourism, Nonprofits, Small Business, and Regional Growth. Participants visit businesses, organizations, and institutions throughout East Alabama and Columbus, gaining behind-the-scenes insight into how the region operates while connecting with leaders who are making an impact in the community every day.
Leadership Development
Throughout the program, participants develop emotional intelligence skills such as self-awareness, communication, empathy, adaptability, and relationship-building through interactive leadership activities, team experiences, and real-world discussions. These experiences help participants become more effective leaders by strengthening their ability to connect with others, navigate challenges, and lead with confidence and purpose.
Networking & Relationship Building
One of the most valuable aspects is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with fellow participants, community leaders, and regional decision-makers. These connections often continue long after the program concludes.
Community Insight
Through immersive experiences and direct interaction with community leaders, participants develop a greater understanding of the partnerships, industries, and initiatives that contribute to East Alabama’s growth and success.
Program Cost
The cost for the year-long program is $750, which includes all program activities, materials, food, and transportation throughout the year.