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New group of Ocean View leaders graduate

May 5, 2007

Ocean View, Hawaii — A new generation of Ocean View community leaders recently graduated from an extensive and unusual leadership development training program. The graduation ceremony and reception took place on April 28 at the Ocean View Community Center.

The Ocean View leadership development program was conducted by Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) through special permission from the Ford Institute Leadership Program which developed the curriculum.

Taught over the course of four weekends in four months, the leadership development curriculum involves 60 hours of classes that include 16 modules designed to help participants gain skills and tools to enable them to be better leaders and to effectively collaborate to get things done.

As part of the training, the group conceives designs and executes a class project that will directly benefit the community.

Leadership Training class projects in other communities have included the creation of a community web site; the formation of a non-profit social services agency; community beautification programs; park renovation and improvement; a youth summit; a street-scaping venture; and even an “Artist of the Month” project designed to foster a sustainable community arts program.

The Ocean View class project involves the construction of seven barbecue pits at Honu’apo Park, one of the few public beach-access points in the area.

“Class members agreed that the barbecue pits will bring diverse members of the community together more often for relaxed and enjoyable interactions,” said Victoire Chochezi, RCAC’s lead trainer for the Ocean View leadership development course. “This kind of positive communication can strengthen communities and make successes easier to achieve.”

The April 28 graduation ceremony included recognition of 21 graduates who are now eager to take on a variety of community challenges and projects. James Koshiba, newly elected board member of RCAC, was on hand to offer congratulations, a few thoughtful comments and to award graduation certificates.

“This has been an exceptionally enthusiastic class,” said Chochezi. “I feel lucky to have been able to work with such a wonderful group of committed and talented people. These new leaders are going to do great things for their community.”

Headquartered in West Sacramento, California, and serving 13 western states, RCAC is a nonprofit agency providing technical assistance and training to rural communities seeking to develop a wide range of local services including, community facilities, affordable housing and water treatment facilities. The organization operates a loan fund with $62 million in lending capital that provides low-interest loans and grants to further rural communities’ goals. RCAC maintains field offices in Honolulu and Hilo.

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