Learn how to create environmental change
The Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions (ANJEC) is accepting applications for Leading Green, a new leadership training for people who want to create positive environmental change in the cities or developed communities where they live, work or play.

Between May and September, a select group of 15 participants from throughout New Jersey will be offered special seminars on environmental issues and skillbuilding sessions focused on lobbying, fundraising and creating a promotional campaign.

"We're looking for individuals who are truly passionate about the environment," saysANJEC Urban Project Director Kerry Margaret Butch. "This is a unique opportunity to develop the tools, skills and knowledge to turn their passion into effective action."

Ideal candidates will include people who serve on municipal boards and nonprofits, committed college students, civic leaders and retirees looking to increase their substantive knowledge of the environment and create workable solutions to environmental issues facing New Jersey, all while improving their leadership skills.

The program offers an overnight retreat and a series of three Saturday sessions, each held at different New Jersey locations.

The May 16 and 17 overnight session at the Princeton Blairstown Center in Blairstown will focus on developing a personal leadership style, featuring trainer Nelson Baez of Baez Associates, a management consulting firm.

On Saturday, June 14, discussion topics will be land use and open space preservation, offered in partnership with Isles, a community development and environmental organization in Trenton. Capt. Bill Sheehan of Hackensack Riverkeeper will host an eco-tour of the Hackensack River on Saturday, July 19.

On Saturday, Sept. 13, a session on air quality and public health will be co-hosted by the Ironbound Community Corp., a nonprofit offering programs and services to improve the quality of life for people in the Ironbound section of Newark.

The nominal tuition fee of $80 covers all four sessions of training, including meals and refreshments. Scholarships are available for those who are unable to pay. This program is made possible in part through grants from the Schumann Fund and The Fund for New Jersey

The application deadline is Tuesday, April 15. For more information or to apply, visit www.anjec.org or call (973) 306-8701.

ANJEC is a statewide nonprofit based inMendham Township that supports local environmental commissions and other municipal officials in their efforts to protect the environment, preserve natural resources and promote sustainability in their communities.