You can download our WILD brochure here.

The Western Institute for Organizing and Leadership Development (WILD) is Western States Center's intensive, year-long organizing and leadership training program. Through residential training sessions and field work, participants develop critical skills and lasting relationships with a network of colleagues that crosses constituencies, issues and geography.

WILD Class of 2003-2004 at Graduation Ceremony

The Western Institute for Organizing and Leadership Development uses an intimate, small-group format to provide participants with broad development of their skills and a deeper understanding of the political context of our region and our times. Three intensive sessions at a residential retreat center and interim field work create a learning environment where leaders and organizers can experiment with new ideas and strategies.

 

The Western Institute for Organizing and Leadership Development is a key component of Western States Center's work to build the progressive movement in the West. The goals of WILD are:

• To create a critical mass of organizers and leaders who share a broad progressive analysis and have the skills to strengthen, lead and staff essential organizations in the Western States region.
• To connect progressive leaders and organizers to each other — across issues, constituencies, and geography — and to a broader vision and movement.
• To deepen organizers' and leaders' commitment to racial justice and progressive social change.

WILD is designed for emerging leaders and organizers, and those who are changing roles in the movement. Participants are drawn from the staff and leadership bodies of racial justice groups, women's organizations, labor unions, low income groups, human rights organizations, environmental justice groups and progressive coalitions in our region. Particular emphasis is on organizations working in poor, rural and people of color communities.