About Our Programs:

Brushy Fork offers cohort-based leadership programs where people come together to build skills, strengthen relationships, and work on real projects that move their communities and organizations forward.

Our programs are grounded in the belief that local people are best positioned to lead change. We create spaces where participants learn by doing, collaborate across differences, and turn shared ideas into meaningful action.

These programs are designed for people who care about their communities and want to take the next step—whether you’re part of a nonprofit, local government, school, business, or simply someone ready to get involved.

Two program participants pose in front of their mural project.
Two program participants place collage materials onto a flipchart page during a hands-on activity.
Two program participants look at papers and talk together during interactive activity.
Several program participants pose in front of their project, a horse trailer converted into a mobile business incubator.
Program participants collaborate on a collage visioning interactive activity.
Youth Group Photo with Welcome Banner - Brushy Fork Leadership Institute - 3

What Makes Our Programs Different

Our approach to leadership development is practical, place-based, and rooted in relationships.

Across all of our programs, participants:

  • Learn by doing – working on real community or organizational projects
  • Build relationships – developing trust and collaboration across sectors and perspectives
  • Make meaning together – creating shared vision grounded in local priorities
  • Plan and act collectively – turning ideas into coordinated action
  • Learn and adapt over time – reflecting, adjusting, and sustaining momentum

These aren’t just program elements—they are the core principles that guide all of our work.

Designed for Real-World Application

While we offer established programs, we also partner with communities, organizations, and networks to design experiences that fit specific goals and contexts.

Every program we take on—whether it’s part of our core offerings or a custom-designed experience—uses this same approach:

  • grounded in local context
  • shaped by participant needs
  • focused on action and outcomes

That means the experience can look different depending on the setting, but the foundation stays the same.

What You’ll Work On

Participants in our programs engage in:

  • building leadership skills and confidence
  • strengthening collaboration and partnerships
  • identifying community or organizational priorities
  • planning and implementing real projects
  • learning alongside peers across sectors and regions

What Participants Walk Away With

Participants leave our programs with:

  • greater confidence to step into leadership
  • stronger relationships and regional networks
  • practical tools for facilitation, planning, and collaboration
  • experience turning ideas into action

“It helped us go from ideas to action.”

Program Formats May Include

  • multi-month cohort experiences
  • leadership workshops and trainings
  • peer learning groups
  • regional programs and convenings

Whether you’re looking to grow as a leader or bring a program to your community, there are multiple ways to engage.