Run4Rural Leadership Training Program
October 3 - October 4
Overview
This 1.5 day program is designed for people interested in strengthening their local communities through nonpartisan elected office and other forms of public leadership. It is open to residents of Winona, Wabasha, Houston, and Fillmore Counties.
This training is useful for people who want to deepen their civic participation, whether or not they have decided to run for office. It creates a nonpartisan* space for participants to build practical skills needed for authentic, community-oriented leadership.
Topics include:
- The role of local nonpartisan elections
- Personal motivation to serve
- Communicating through stories and shared values
- Community engagement that brings people together
*Nonpartisan means “not supporting or affiliated with a specific political party.” In Minnesota, our county, city, township and school board offices are nonpartisan.
How to participate
The program will take place at Winona State University on October 3 and 4, 2025, roughly Friday late afternoon-evening and all day Saturday. You must be available for the full training on both dates.
The training is free for most participants, and meals are included. People running for office or re-election will need to pay a $160 fee.
Space is limited to 30. This is a noncompetitive process, and we will welcome people as long as space is available.
To apply, fill out the application form here.
What happens after you fill out the application form:
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You will receive an automatic email copy of your responses
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A team member from Engage Winona will reach out to schedule a short call. The purpose of the call is to confirm your interest in participating and ensure you understand and agree to the program expectations.
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If we do not hear back from you, we will not hold your spot.