As part of its commitment to strengthening rural communities, Blandin Foundation is making its Blandin Community Leadership Program available to those in the Albert Lea area.

A committee of local residents is actively seeking applicants. All those interested in the future of the Albert Lea area are invited to apply to participate in the nationally recognized program. Deadline to apply is Aug. 6. Applications can be accessed and completed online at leadership.blandinfoundation.org.

Ultimately, a community cohort of 24 people will be selected to take part in eight days of training — a five-day residential retreat scheduled for Oct. 8-12 at Sugar Lake Lodge south of Grand Rapids and three follow-up workshops scheduled for Nov. 27, Feb. 5 and April 16 in Albert Lea. BCLP is underwritten by the Blandin Foundation, which covers costs for training, materials, food, lodging and tuition.

Additional information about BCLP can be obtained by contacting local BCLP alumni: Chad Adams at 507.473.3196 or cadams@ci.albertlea.mn.us; Kim Nelson at 507-383-3637 or kimberly.nelson@riverland.edu; Becky Adams at 877-882-2257, extension 736 or rmadams@blandinfoundation.org; or Senja Morque 887-882-2257, extension 732 or skmorque@blandinfoundation.org of the Blandin Foundation.