This program seeks to leverage civically-minded resident interest in the city to prepare individuals for non-elected or elected leadership roles, foster community-based problem solving, and support neighborhood self-reliance through civic engagement. 

This free, 12-week, 22-hour community leadership program develops individuals to be more effective in their civic life, work with other community groups, and in community building and engagement efforts.

Class size is limited to 40 participants. Registration is closed for the 2025 session. 

Registration for the 2027 LEAD class will be open from Nov. 1 - 15, 2026. Those accepted into the 2027 cohort will be notified the week of Nov. 16. 

Contact  Jeremy Dyck at 623-882-7803 with any questions.

More about Goodyear LEAD curriculum:

Specifically, the courses:

• cultivate a deeper appreciation of local government by providing in-depth information about how local government works,
• develop skills to strengthen participants’ leadership capability and inform individual interest, and
• build relationships with emerging community leaders.

Applicants must live or work in the city of Goodyear and be at least 18 years of age. 

Sessions will be scheduled from 6-8p.m. on consecutive Tuesdays in January, February and March of each year and each session includes dinner, networking and instruction.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will receive a certificate and a lapel pin during a graduation ceremony to designate their accomplishment and alumni status. Enrollment in future courses will be open to alumni free of charge with RSVP. This will enable alumni to participate in additional classes, get a refresher, and have access to any additions to the curriculum as the program grows. 

Please note that completion requires the  attendance of no less than 20 of the 22 class hours. More than two hours of absence will make the participant ineligible for alumni status. 

2025 Core Coursework Includes:

Potential Elective Examples:

Following your 12-weeks of L.E.A.D., you'll have the opportunity to participate in various educational electives. These are just some of the examples of LEAD Alumni electives.