Staff Report

The Bell County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the “Leadership Bell County” program. Applications can be obtained at the chamber office located on North 20th Street.

Anyone who either resides or works in Bell County can apply for the program. Applicants are asked to document their leadership qualities through their activities at work, church, civic club, school or other community organizations.

Participants selected from the program will represent a cross section of the county and will vary in background. Last years graduating class included employees from Bell-Whitley, each high school in the area, Middlesboro ARH and Pineville Community Hospital, Coke, and Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College.Participants will be selected by a confidential screening committee.

According to the chamber website, the program is committed to building a strong civic culture through the development of leadership, involvement and cooperation throughout Bell County.

It is designed to enhance the future of the area by identifying individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to the county and have a potential for leadership. The program acquaints participants with issues of leadership and with community structure and operation.

Participation in the program can increase networking within the community as well as increase personal empowerment. The class will be limited to 20 individuals.

Leadership Bell County has participated with several groups throughout the area. Earlier in the year, the program teamed up with UNITE to bring the community a 5K walk/run and corn-hole tournament.

For more information about the program, contact the Bell County Chamber of Commerce at 606-248-1075.