When LeNard Short first learned about the Capital Area Food Bank’s Client Leadership Council (CLC), he wasn’t sure what to expect.
He had spotted information about the program in one of the food boxes he regularly received from the food bank and decided to sign up to learn more.
Ten months later, LeNard is one of 21 graduates of the sixth CLC cohort, and says the program gave him confidence, connections, and skills to advocate for himself and others.
“I got to meet a lot of different people that I would never have met if I wouldn’t have been in the program,” he said. “They gave us the tools on how to speak to the people who make a difference.”
This month, the Capital Area Food Bank celebrated the graduates of the 10-month program. Participants from across the DMV brought their lived experience with food insecurity to the program, where they strengthened their leadership skills, learned about food insecurity and public policy, connected with elected officials, and developed new ways to advocate for their communities.
For LeNard, one of the biggest takeaways wasn’t just learning about advocacy, it was learning how to share his own story in a way that could inspire action. Through the CLC, he connected with fellow participants as well as community organizations and advocates who could help him navigate resources to better support himself and others. He also gained the skills to tailor his message depending on his audience, whether speaking with neighbors, at the food bank’s , or with congressional staff on Capitol Hill.
“I got to voice my opinion on what I think should be done to help people,” he said.
Mary Jones came into the program with a similarly open mind.
After receiving a phone call encouraging her to apply, she decided to give the program a chance without knowing exactly what it would involve.
“I was just joining in to see what I could learn,” she said.
What she found was far more than she expected.
Throughout the year, Mary enjoyed learning alongside her fellow cohort members, from hands-on cooking classes to advocacy visits on Capitol Hill. Just as meaningful were the friendships she built and the welcoming environment that encouraged participants to learn from one another.
“I learned from being friends and communicating with others,” she said. “I enjoyed all the company.”
Looking back, Mary says she’s grateful she said yes to the opportunity. If she ever finds out who recommended her for the program, she already knows what she’d say.
“I would thank them very much,” she said. “It turned out to be a great big deal.”
Although each graduate’s journey was unique, both LeNard and Mary walked away with something lasting: stronger connections with their community, a deeper understanding of how they can make a difference, and a renewed ability to use their voices.
When asked whether they would recommend the Client Leadership Council to someone else, their answers were immediate.
For Mary, it’s because participants have the chance to learn from one another while building meaningful relationships. She said others will not only enjoy the program but also learn from the people around them.
LeNard’s advice is simple: come with an open mind to learn.
As the newest class of Client Leadership Council graduates prepares for what’s next, they’re leaving with more than a certificate. They’re leaving with the skills, confidence and lived experience to continue speaking up.
Inspired to get involved or know someone whose lived experience and passion could make them a great addition to the next cohort? Applications are now open through August 31st.
Photo credit: Carolyn Van Houten for Capital Area Food Bank