LCC FAQ

Leadership Chester County (LCC) is an 8-month leadership development program offered by Chester County United Way. It is designed to prepare participants for meaningful nonprofit board service and community leadership. The program blends practical board training with a deep dive into the local issues, organizations, and systems that shape Chester County and beyond. Whether you’re new to nonprofit leadership or looking to deepen your impact, this program is designed to help you lead with confidence and purpose.

The program began in 2001 under the name Chester County Leadership Connection and was renamed Leadership Chester County in 2011. While the name changed, the mission remained the same. Now celebrating its 25th year, LCC has equipped hundreds of alumni to serve in board and volunteer leadership roles across Chester County and in communities throughout the region.

LCC is designed specifically to prepare you for nonprofit board service, so you’re not just learning how to lead, but where and why your leadership matters. You’ll gain the tools to govern effectively, the context to lead with empathy, and the connections to put your values into action.

What truly sets us apart is the in-person, cohort-based format. Meeting monthly over eight months gives you time to build real relationships, reflect on what you’re learning, and stay engaged without burning out. That continuity creates space for deeper conversations and lasting connections—something a one-day workshop or virtual program simply can’t replicate.

LCC is for anyone ready to step up as a community leader – whether you’re a seasoned professional, a retiree, or just getting started in your career. Participants come from all sectors, including business, government, education, and nonprofits. If you’re curious about how our community works and want to make a difference, this program is for you.

Tuition for the Leadership Chester County program is $2,750. This covers all program-related costs, including eight months of curriculum, expert facilitators, site visits, session materials, and meals.

Many LCC participants are sponsored by their employers, who see the program as a valuable professional development opportunity that also strengthens their organization’s community connections.

There’s no formal age or experience requirement. We are looking for people who are ready to learn, engage, and contribute. While many participants have some professional or volunteer experience, we value a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.

No, you don’t need to live or work in Chester County to apply. The only requirement is that you’re able to attend all program sessions in person in and around Exton, PA.

Most sessions are held at Chester County United Way in Exton, but others take place out in the community. Throughout the program, you’ll visit local nonprofits and other community sites across Chester County to see leadership in action and connect more deeply with the organizations and issues you’re learning about.

LCC meets once a month, typically on the first Wednesday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., October through May. In addition to the monthly sessions, participants collaborate on a group project that involves some work outside of class hours. We know your time is valuable, so each session is designed to be engaging, efficient, and packed with practical takeaways.

Yes, attendance is expected at all sessions. We understand that unexpected conflicts can come up, so participants may miss up to two sessions and still complete the program. If you miss more than two, you may be asked to defer to a future class.

Please note that we do not offer full or partial refunds for missed sessions or early withdrawal.

Yes, LCC offers a limited number of full and partial scholarships. We’re committed to ensuring that cost isn’t a barrier to participation. In the “Application Type” section of the LCC application, self-paying and nonprofit applicants can request scholarship support. Just include a brief explanation of your request (e.g., limited personal resources, or your organization isn’t able to cover tuition). This section is optional and confidential.

LCC’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics essential to effective leadership and nonprofit board service. Core sessions include board governance, fiduciary responsibility, fundraising, strategic planning, and advocacy. Participants explore issues such as poverty, ethics in nonprofit leadership, collaboration, and innovation. Additional sessions dive into areas like marketing and communications, social entrepreneurship, and leveraging technology.

You’ll also take part in site visits that bring these topics to life, offering a firsthand look at how local organizations are tackling complex community challenges.

Each year, LCC participants work on a real-world project for a local nonprofit. These projects are designed to be strategic – not operational – and focus on big-picture, board-level challenges. That might include things like researching a new service model, exploring a complex community issue, or helping a nonprofit think through a new direction or initiative.

You’ll collaborate in small teams and as a class with the nonprofit over several months, applying what you’re learning to a meaningful, hands-on challenge. It’s a chance to contribute your skills while gaining firsthand experience in nonprofit leadership andstrategy.

Sponsoring an employee’s participation in LCC is an investment that pays off on multiple levels. Participants return with stronger leadership skills, fresh perspective, and a deeper understanding of the community where your organization operates. They also gain experience working in diverse teams, strengthening their ability to collaborate, communicate, and problem-solve in group settings.

It’s also a meaningful way to demonstrate your company’s commitment to civic engagement and social responsibility—showing that you value not just professional growth, but community impact as well.

Yes. Many of our graduates go on to serve on boards shortly after the program. We make introductions, share open positions, and help participants find a cause that aligns with their passion and skills.

Yes! Many join nonprofit boards, volunteer in the community, or support LCC as speakers, mentors, or alumni ambassadors. Once you’re part of the LCC family, you’re always welcome back.