In 2016 the Woodford County Extension Council determined a need for a leadership program within the county in order to empower citizens to be involved in challenges and opportunities the community faces. As a result of this, the Woodford County Extension Office in collaboration with the Woodford County Chamber of Commerce developed Leadership Woodford County. The program gives participants the opportunity to better understand their community and learn the skills they will need to prepare for the challenges it faces, help promote change, improve our quality of life, and lead. 

Leadership Woodford County is an educational opportunity that broadens perspectives and allows participants to gain a better understanding of community dynamics and public issues. Leadership Woodford County is a nine-month program featuring monthly one-day meetings that highlight different aspects of the community. Sessions include: orientation, education, industry, health care, state government, local government, law and justice, and agriculture and tourism. Each class has the responsibility of conducting a class project benefiting the community. Community service projects have included a blanket drive, a community resource guide, an earbud drive, and a festival of trees fundraising event for youth in the community. Class members had to practice and apply leadership skills as a group while working on this community project. They worked with community leaders and gained a better understanding of community organizations and community needs to help make a positive difference in the lives of those in need. 

There have been three classes up to this point, with 43 total graduates. Evaluations of participants proved the success. One participant stated that “Leadership Woodford County is a wonderful way to learn more about organizations in the community, to connect with new people (even if you've lived here your whole life), and to give back through a service project. A highly-recommended experience!” The program continues to be conducted on an annual basis for people who work and/or live in Woodford County with the intent to build leadership skills and to empower them to become more aware and involved in our community.