Independence LEAD Alumni

Congratulations LEAD Class of 2026!

Hey L.E.A.D. alumni! You’ve seen firsthand how powerful the Independence L.E.A.D. program can be. Now it’s time to help someone else take that leap. Know someone who would benefit from growing their network, sharpening their skills, and becoming a community game-changer? NOMINATE them. ENCOURAGE them. TAG them. SHARE this opportunity.

L.E.A.D. Independence is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 class!

📌 DEADLINE TO APPLY: September 1, 2025
➡️APPLY HERE: https://business.ichamber.biz/form/view/35897

Let’s build the next generation of local leaders, starting with your recommendation.

What a day at the May Membership Luncheon and L.E.A.D. Independence Graduation last week. We celebrated the Independence LEAD Class of 2025, heard inspiring words from presenting sponsor Ron Finke with Stewardship Capital, Jeff Benson class representative, and instructor Patrick Farrell. We saw firsthand how this class raised the bar.

We also shared a heartfelt farewell to Chamber President Tom Lesnak as he heads into retirement after 18 years of service. He was honored with a framed photo of the Independence Uptown Market and a card filled with messages from fellow Chamber members.

Congrats to the LEAD Class of 2025. Applications are now open for the next LEAD class starting in September. Apply by September 1st, 2025. See individual photos below.

Apply now: ⬇️
business.ichamber.biz/form/view/35897

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE PHOTOTS FROM THE EVENT:
https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCfo15

L.E.A.D. Wraps Up Non-Profit Day & Prepares for Graduation

Our Independence L.E.A.D. class recently wrapped up a powerful and purpose-driven day centered around the theme of “Non-Profit Day”. The day was packed with inspiration, local impact, and leadership lessons, it was a celebration of the organizations that make our community stronger.

The morning started with coffee and conversation at BlendWell Community Cafe, setting the tone for a day of connection. Lynne Baker kicked things off with an energizing leadership session that got everyone thinking big.

Then the class heard from Hope House, whose mission to support survivors of domestic violence reminded us what compassion in action looks like.

The Community Services League shared how they uplift lives daily, followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of BlendWell and a great Q&A session.

A hearty BBQ lunch at A Little BBQ Joint brought everyone together to refuel and reflect.

After lunch they headed to Independence Animal Services, participants got a heartwarming look at the care provided to our city’s animals and even rolled up their sleeves to make dog treats!

The day wrapped up at Hereford House with some well-deserved happy hour cheers and meaningful conversations.

Come Cheer on Our L.E.A.D. Grads! Join Us for L.E.A.D. Graduation May Membership Luncheon on May 21st from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The City House, where the L.E.A.D. graduates will share highlights from their journey and celebrate their graduation. It's a can't-miss moment of inspiration and community connection! LINK BELOW TO REGISTER:⬇️
https://business.ichamber.biz/events/details/monthly-membership-luncheon-lead-graduation-16554?calendarMonth=2025-05-01