Neighborhood University

Why Does the County Provide Classes for Community Leaders?
 
Only by providing education and skill improvement for our Prince William County neighborhood leaders can we hope to enhance and improve the quality of life in our communities. As part of the "Partnering with Communities" initiative, Neighborhood Services provides low cost or free classes, workshops and seminars on topics of current interest to neighborhood volunteers. Experts in the field of common interest communities, County staff and certified building and zoning officials instruct the classes.
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What Workshops and Classes are Offered?
 
Workshop subjects vary to meet citizen needs and respond to emerging concerns. In the recent past, topics of Neighborhood University workshops have varied from "Vehicle Issues in the Neighborhood" to "Recruiting and Retaining Volunteers" to "Financial Responsibilities of HOA and Condo Boards." Many are described in the catalog of the three "colleges" of the Neighborhood University: the College of Neighborhood Leadership, the Community Association College and the Code College. A fourth "college" in the series to be added in 2012 is the Neighborhood Development College focused on capacity building and sustainability efforts in the places where we live. Workshops are announced periodically and are open to anyone interested in working toward improving their community.
 
Monthly workshops for residents who serve as leaders, board members, or advocates for their officially organized or non-organized community also attend Neighborhood Leaders Group meetings with themes relevant to programs and initiatives that help these leaders be as effective as possible. More on the themes for Neighborhood Leader Group sessions can be found here.
 
The Homeowner and Condominium Leadership Seminar held in the fall and the annual Neighborhood Conference in February also offer valuable learning opportunities.
 
How Do I Get Started?
 
Try out one of the free workshops listed on the Neighborhood Services website. Invite a neighbor to come with you so you'll have someone with whom to continue the flow of ideas and enthusiasm! If you don't know anyone in your neighborhood that shares your interest, join the Neighborhood Leaders Group to find some like-minded people.
 
Registration is required for these learning opportunities so we can ensure that sufficient materials and space can be provided. Most classes are free. When a fee is charged, it is to help cover expenses. Call Neighborhood Services at 703-792-7018 or e-mail nsd@pwcgov.org to register for a learning opportunity. Also contact us if you'd like to see a specific class added to the catalog or to the upcoming schedule. We look forward to having you join us!