Neighborhood Leadership Academy
The Neighborhood Leadership Academy (NLA) is a dynamic 12-week leadership development program designed to equip emerging and community-based leaders with the tools, confidence, and perspective needed to drive meaningful change. Formerly hosted at Savannah State University, NLA is now delivered through a high-quality online learning experience that allows participants to engage deeply while balancing work, family, and community commitments.
Each cohort welcomes up to 25 adults from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences who are passionate about strengthening their leadership capacity and expanding their understanding of the systems that shape our communities. NLA focuses on training local residents to advocate effectively—from self to system—empowering them to move from personal insight to collective action.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own stories, challenges, and perspectives into the learning space. These narratives play a critical role in shaping conversations that inform decision-making, influence policies, and improve community-wide practices. Through this process, Step Up Savannah helps foster cooperative partnerships between residents, organizations, and policymakers—partnerships that are essential to creating pathways toward economic mobility and shared prosperity.
Throughout the program, participants explore current best practices in leadership, examine a wide range of leadership styles, and engage in meaningful dialogue with peers and community leaders. The curriculum blends reflection, discussion, and hands-on problem-solving, allowing participants to apply what they learn to real-world challenges facing their neighborhoods.
Every NLA graduate leaves the program prepared to serve as a building block for a stronger, more equitable community, equipped not only with leadership skills, but with a deeper understanding of how their voice and action can help shape lasting change.
Who should apply?
The Neighborhood Leadership Academy (NLA) is open to adults who are eager to deepen their understanding of community issues and strengthen their leadership and advocacy skills. This program is ideal for individuals who care about their neighborhoods, want to make informed decisions, and are ready to use their voice to create positive change.
Applicants should be willing to take an active role in their community beyond the classroom. After completing the training, participants are expected to commit to an increased level of civic responsibility, such as serving on a Neighborhood Association, joining a nonprofit or community organization’s board of directors, or collaborating with groups that plan and implement programs benefiting local residents.
NLA is especially well-suited for community members who:
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Want to grow as leaders and advocates
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Are interested in understanding how systems and policies impact their neighborhoods
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Are prepared to turn knowledge into action through service and leadership
If you are ready to invest in your personal leadership development and contribute meaningfully to the long-term well-being of your community, NLA is designed for you.
Cost of NEIGHBORHOOD LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Thanks to the generous support of The Charles A. Frueauff Foundation and our community partners, the Neighborhood Leadership Academy is offered at no cost to participants. Participants are expected to commit both their time and continued service to the community.
NLA 2025 Program Update
The Neighborhood Leadership Academy (NLA) launched last fall with a strong start. Orientation was held on September 8, 2025, followed by the official start of classes on September 15, 2025.
Participants are now engaged in building leadership skills, expanding community connections, and preparing to make a positive impact in Chatham County. We look forward to our next cohort in 2026.
