Integrating Theory and Practice: Leadership and Community Development in the Dakotas

Abstract

A model to enhance community and economic development, referred to as the Dakota Model, is presented as a mechanism to encourage empowering, collaborative network development. This model was applied through a leadership training program, sponsored by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. The program, Dakota Leadership Education and Development (LEADers), was implemented in North and South Dakota from 1989 through 1991 by six-member teams from thirty-two rural communities. The teams received training, conducted community assessments, and planned and executed a community development project. This process is described, giving particular emphasis to the projects. Evidence is provided to support the efficacy of the model. Implications are given for the use of the Dakota Model to enhance grassroots participation in multiple settings.