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Those of us engaged in leadership, community service, and social change know the challenge of sustaining ourselves and our commitment to deeply held values and beliefs. The more passionate we are about our work, the more vital it is that we take time to renew our own spirits -- to reflect on the wellsprings of our service to others -- to reconnect who we are with what we do.
What is Courage to Lead®?
Courage to Lead retreats provide an opportunity for nonprofit executives and decision-makers to renew themselves and cultivate their leadership. Retreat experiences focus on the relationship of the inner life to the outer work of service in the world. Just as we experience nature’s cycles of seasonal renewal, our lives and work are transformed in cycles of engagement and withdrawal, love and loss, creativity and despair. Taking time to quiet ourselves and reflect on the meaning of the seasons in our own lives, we are better able to renew our spirits and our commitments. As we are renewed, we are more able to contribute to the renewal of our professions, workplaces, families, and communities.
Process of Courage to Lead
Courage to Lead retreats provide space and quiet so that we can begin to hear our inner voice. The practice of reflection, journaling, and deep listening are part of the fabric of our approach. In his book A Hidden Wholeness, Parker Palmer describes Courage work as “creating a space that both safeguards and encourages the inner journey.” Working in such a space, participants gain opportunities to renew personal identity, professional integrity, and vocational vitality. Meeting quarterly in retreat with a group of other nonprofit leaders provides the opportunity to build community and hear different perspectives.
| Origin of Courage to Lead The process of Courage to Lead is based on the circle of trust model developed by Parker J. Palmer and the Center for Courage and Renewal Center for Courage & Renewal facilitators have lead more than 150 circle of trust retreat series across the country for groups of serving professionals -- teachers, clergy, doctors, school leaders, nonprofit leaders and community leaders. These retreats have been made affordable for participants through support by major foundations (including the Fetzer Foundation, Lilly Foundation and Rainwater Foundation) in addition to local donors. | Testimonials In evaluations of past retreats, nonprofit leaders have cited many benefits of participating: “This was life-changing. I know that I’ll be a much more productive and efficient leader once I apply what I’ve learned about rest.”
“Refocused my attention on the “why” as opposed to the “what” as it related to the mission of my agency. Will be able to use this model of listening, questions, and silence directly and indirectly in my work.” “I learned listening skills to allow me to interact more effectively with others.”
“It will help eliminate burnout. It provided a new way to look at problems.” |
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