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Imagine Durand Lead 580

DEVELOPING DURANT'S NEXT GENERATION OF CIVIC LEADERS

Whether you're considering a campaign or ready to file the paperwork tomorrow, Lead 580 is a crash course in everything that goes into running for public office.

Lead 580 is a four-month, nine-session bootcamp to prepare young members of the Durant community to run for local, state and federal office. The program will offer information about the roles and responsibilities of various levels of government, provide a firsthand look at the challenges and opportunities of serving in public office, and equip participants with the knowledge and skills to run a campaign.

Inaugural Lead 580 cohort

Participants

Lead 580 is for Bryan County residents between the ages of 18 and 40 who are interested in learning about how to run for, and serve in, public office. The program actively seeks diverse young professionals from all parts of the region to participate.

Benefits

Participants will hear from current and former elected officials, campaign managers, and political insiders on the merits and challenges of running for and holding public office.

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  • Participants will expand their knowledge about the roles and responsibilities of various levels of government.

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  • Participants will expand their networks by connecting with other passionate, civic-minded young professionals and community leaders.

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  • Participants have the opportunity to be mentored by a former elected official to help them strengthen their platform and make decisions about their personal civic journey. 

Application Schedule

Program Schedule

  • What is the purpose of Lead 580?
    Lead 580 is a four-month, nine-session bootcamp to prepare young members of the Durant community to run for public office. Whether you're considering a campaign or ready to file the paperwork tomorrow, Lead 580 is a crash course in everything that goes into running for a local, state or federal seat.
  • When are applications open?
    Applications are open each year in January. 2022 applications and program dates to be announced.
  • Is there a cost?
    There is no cost to participate in Lead 580.
  • How many people will be selected for this program?
    There will be 30 applicants selected for the program each year.
  • Is this program only for people who want to run for public office?
    No, Lead 580 also accepts applicants who would like to learn more about campaigns and the details of public service. This program is a great option for young professionals who would like to work on other candidates' campaigns or get civically informed and involved.
  • Will my political leanings or affiliation affect my acceptance into this program?
    No, Lead 580 is a nonpartisan program that accepts applicants of diverse political affiliations and ideologies.
  • If I am prepared to file for office after completing 580 Lead, what support can I expect from Imagine Durant?
    While Lead 580 will provide information and connections to help participants learn best practices in building a campaign team, fundraising, and filing for office, Imagine Durant will not directly support participants with any of these components upon completion of the program. After completion, Lead 580 will connect participants committed to running for office with a local former elected official and other state and national candidate-support organizations to navigate the next steps on their civic journey.
  • Will Imagine Durant endorse or sponsor me if I choose to run for public office?
    No, Imagine Durant does not endorse or sponsor candidates.

FAQs

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