Leadership Lab Interest Form

The First 5 Leadership Institute’s Leadership Lab is a shared leadership experience where participants both give and receive support, fostering mutual growth and flourishing. Through reciprocal partnerships, individuals strengthen their confidence and leadership skills while contributing to a culture of inclusion, connection, and collaboration across the First 5 Network.

What We Ask of You
Time: Meet with your leadership partner at least once per month for 6 months.
Engagement: Treat the partnership as a two-way exchange—both giving and receiving support.
Goals: Identify and track leadership goals, with reflection along the way.
Feedback: Complete surveys/check-ins to help us evaluate and improve the program.
Organizational Support: Ensure your supervisor/commission supports your time commitment.

What We Provide to You
To make it easier for Leadership Lab partners to connect face-to-face, each participating First 5 Commission will receive a $200 stipend. This support can be used for travel, meals, or other costs related to in-person Leadership Lab meetings.
Orientation Session to set you and your partner up for success. Save the date our 25-26 Program Year Orientation is scheduled for December 3 at 10AM.
Tools & Resources such as reflection guides, conversation prompts, and check-in templates.
Staff Support from the Association to coordinate matching, troubleshoot issues, and offer office hours.
Community Connection opportunities (optional group convenings and learning opportunities).

Please complete your interest form by November 14
Limit 50 participants for Program Year 25-26

Section 1: Contact & Demographics

Question Title

* 1. Name

Question Title

* 2. Pronouns

Question Title

* 3. Email

Question Title

* 4. Phone number

Question Title

* 5. Organization

Question Title

* 6. Title/Role

Question Title

* 7. Which First5 Network role type best fits your current position/area of expertise?
For more information review our Onboarding resources
Staff - Quick Start Guide
Staff - Onboarding Guide
Executive Director Quick Start Guide
Executive Director Onboarding Guide
Commissioner Quick Start Guide
Commissioner Onboarding Guide

Programs and Services - A First 5 program staff member is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring funded programs and services that advance the Commission’s strategic goals

Operational and Administrative Support - A First 5 staff member providing vital operational and administrative support ensures smooth daily operations and strong infrastructure for effective program implementation.

Financial Stewardship and Accountability - A First 5 staff member overseeing fiscal activities safeguards the Commission’s financial integrity by managing operations and ensuring compliance with all funding requirements.

Policy and Advocacy - A First 5 policy staff member aligns the Commission with key priorities, ensuring responsiveness
to legislation, community needs, and opportunities.

Strategic Communications and Public Engagement - A First 5 marketing and communications staff member promotes the Commission’s mission and programs while building awareness, trust, and engagement.

Executive Director - Oversees the strategic planning, funding and evaluation, and budgeting and financial management of a First 5 Commission

First 5 Commissioner - entrusted with critical decision-making responsibilities that shape the direction,
impact, and accountability of their Commissions.

Leadership Lab Interest Form

Question Title

* 1. Name

Question Title

* 2. Pronouns

Question Title

* 3. Email

Question Title

* 4. Phone number

Question Title

* 5. Organization

Question Title

* 6. Title/Role

Question Title

Question Title

* 8. Years in current role

Question Title

* 9. Years in First 5 Network/Early Childhood Field

Question Title

* 10. County where you live