The California Lions Club looks to emphasize leadership in Moniteau County through a new organization.
The club gathered for a special meeting regarding the future of California and surrounding areas on Dec. 7 at Oak Street Hall. Member Paul Bloch gave a presentation on a new leadership organization which could contribute to the revitalization of Moniteau County.
"I'm a little concerned about our community. About the growth of it and what keeps our young people here," Bloch said.
He explained many younger residents are encouraged to leave their homes and pursue opportunities outside of California and the county after high school. However, this also creates a vacuum in the area for future entrepreneurs and potential business owners. Bloch then introduced members to a potential program called Leadership Moniteau County (LMC).
According to a proposal distributed by Bloch to members, LMC is "a program created to motivate our county's citizens to become involved in community affairs including public service and participation in civic and not-for-profit organizations."
Bloch approached members to ask if the club would be the sponsoring organization for the program. The proposal states the board of directors would be comprised of four club members and four outside individuals. While other organizations in the county would be approached to act as sponsors for the LMC, the Lions Club would play a key role as the initial foundation of the program.
"Leadership Moniteau County is a concept that would make an opportunity available to 15 to 20 people every year to learn about our area, learn about California, Tipton, Jamestown, Moniteau County, what's available here, but also in the state in general," Bloch said.
Residents from throughout would be able to apply to join the program. The LMC would teach members leadership skills by visiting areas such as California, Tipton and Jamestown, and learning about local industry and agriculture, businesses, education, law enforcement and more.
LMC courses would begin during the third quarter of 2023. There would be no age limit for these courses and would take place over six sessions throughout a 12-month period. The cost for the LMC program would be $350. The proposal said if members are employed they must have the support of their businesses or organization.
Bloch also plans to reach out to other organizations for their support and sponsorship. This includes organizations such as the California Area Chamber of Commerce, the Tipton Area Chamber of Commerce, California Progress Inc., Moniteau Regional Economic Development Council and others.
After Bloch's presentation, members gave their thoughts on the proposal. Bloch received positive feedback from those who attended other leadership programs through their work. Lions Club member Sharon Campbell said she wouldn't give up her leadership training for the world. Campbell said, through her courses, she learned new insight into her community despite growing up there and believes LMC would offer others the same opportunity.
The California Lions Club approved to be the sponsoring organization for the LMC program with the understanding it would also reach out to other entities for support.