DARLINGTON — Never has developing engaged, equipped, and connected leaders been more important. For two decades, the Community Leadership Alliance of SW Wisconsin has provided such training to emerging leaders across Grant, Lafayette, and Iowa Counties. In the age of COVID, the group has made a pivot from providing six day-long monthly classes to hosting a new on-line series of nine lunch-hour Community Conversations held every-other-week. CLA 2.1 launched Feb. 3, with a discussion of Values in Leadership with Dare to Lead Facilitator Kate Adametz Jenkins.

Adametz Jenkins, who is one of only 500 certified Dare to Lead facilitators in the nation, skillfully led the Zoom participants through a presentation, personal reflection times and small-group discussion in virtual breakout “rooms.”

Adametz Jenkins, a native and resident of Montfort, shared her own personal story of being empowered by Brene Brown’s book “Daring to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.” and immediately knowing she wanted to get trained as a facilitator in Brown’s coaching method. Jenkins is a 20-year veteran in professional development and coaching.

“This Zoom was a breakthrough for me. Taking time to do this personal work with others really was impactful.” said CLA Board Member Kriss Marion, of Blanchardville. “The CLA Board of Directors respects the gravity of cancelling our normal in-person CLA Class for 2021, but we are genuinely excited about the amazing opportunities that are possible in the virtual space.”

Adametz Jenkins will also lead the second CLA 2.1 Community Conversation from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17. This session will focus on Trust in Leadership. The micro-learning session and small group discussion will delve into how to access values in building self-trust and trust with others.

For more information call CLA Adminstrator Chianne Schwietzer at 608-800-6802.