RDI awards grants -Community Leadership Celebration and Award Ceremony of the Rural Community Leadership Program

March 13, 2025 1:30 am
Vern Hestand accepts a $1,000 grant for his mural project. Also in the photo is Rod Fleck with the city of Forks and Gilmore.
Vern Hestand accepts a $1,000 grant for his mural project. Also in the photo is Rod Fleck with the city of Forks and Gilmore.

Over the past three years, Rural Development Initiative, Inc., has hosted and successfully completed three leadership cohorts in Forks, WA. Through these efforts, the program has built a strong foundation for community leadership, fostering collaboration among diverse sectors and individuals.

“I am so much more confident in myself as a person, leader and member of the community. I’ve gained so much knowledge and knowledge is power!” ~ 2023-2024 Participant

Last Saturday afternoon, there was a small ceremony in the Hospital Conference Room where grants were awarded. These grants support important work happening in the community.

This was a great opportunity to connect with community members, celebrate the accomplishments of the leadership program graduates, and learn more about other efforts in the region.

Susan Heiny, president of the Slip Point Lighthouse Keepers, with Gilmore, accepts a $3,000 grant for the restoration project of the Slip Point Lighthouse at Clallam Bay.

Susan Heiny, president of the Slip Point Lighthouse Keepers, with Gilmore, accepts a $3,000 grant for the restoration project of the Slip Point Lighthouse at Clallam Bay.

Submitted photos Christine Gilmore, Director of Leadership and Community Engagement RDI, with Patsy Brown accepting a $1000 grant for Ginger’s Closet.

Submitted photos Christine Gilmore, Director of Leadership and Community Engagement RDI, with Patsy Brown accepting a $1000 grant for Ginger’s Closet.