Each year, 16 to 18 La Plata locals are selected to be part of Leadership La Plata. Since its founding in 1988, LLP has graduated some 375 concerned citizens, and it counts among its alumni business leaders, government officials, non-profit directors, active private citizens, and more. The commonality: commitment to making a difference in La Plata County. A program of the Durango Chamber of Commerce, Leadership La Plata was the brainchild of B. Stephens (Steve) Parker and then-Chamber Director Jasper Welch. Together with radio executive Harold Green, they assembled the first LLP Steering Committee comprised of individuals representing a cross-section of the county. The founding fathers and mothers wanted to ensure that LLP was “community-based” and not an elite “club.” That focus on diversity continues today. Participation in Leadership La Plata often defies description. While exploring your leadership legacy is part of the process, perhaps of greater value is the broad-based exposure to all facets of the county – a behind-the-scenes view into the intricate network that makes La Plata County tick. And then there’s the additional network – an open door to the county’s most vital movers and shakers, plus the friendships that transcend traditional borders. An all-volunteer organization, Leadership La Plata relies on the support of the community to provide both monetary and in-kind donations to continue its legacy of leadership and enhancement of our county. Recruitment for the next class begins in April 2012. All information is available on-line at www.leadershiplaplata.org.