ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ)- Community Development Works is accepting applications for the 2025 session of Cenla Boardbuilders, a free program aimed at preparing emerging leaders to serve on boards of local nonprofit organizations.

The deadline to apply is July 28, and the program will run from August through October, concluding with a graduation ceremony on Nov. 14.

Cenla Boardbuilders, a program of The Rapides Foundation, offers two learning tracks. Track I is designed for newly seated nonprofit board members seeking training on effective board service. Track II is tailored for individuals with no prior board experience who want to learn about nonprofit governance and connect with organizations needing volunteer leadership.

The program is open to professionals identified by their employers as emerging leaders, current nonprofit board members looking for orientation to their roles, and community members seeking high-level volunteer opportunities. Participating nonprofit board members must be from organizations with actively engaged boards and established committee structures.

Sessions will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays at The Rapides Foundation Building at 1101 Fourth St. in Alexandria. Dates for the in-person sessions are Aug. 12, Sept. 12, Sept. 26 and Oct. 10. A virtual orientation will be held on Aug. 15.

The program also includes a September networking lunch and an October recruitment session to connect participants with nonprofit leaders, offering opportunities for both learning and relationship-building.

Local employers are encouraged to sponsor employees as participants, providing professional development for staff while helping build stronger community leadership.

“CDW is looking for people who want to give back to their communities,” The Rapides Foundation shared on social media. “Cenla Boardbuilders is free of charge.”

For more information or to apply, visit the official Boardbuilders page or call Community Development Works at (318) 767-3013.