The Open Door 2024 Leadership Training Series, Next Level Leadership, is made possible by the DODD ARPA Workforce Support Grant.

Welcome to an exciting chapter in leadership development! At Open Door Columbus, our 2024 Next Level Leadership Training Series is more than just a program; it’s a dynamic journey designed to elevate leadership skills and foster personal growth. This ambitious initiative is made possible thanks to the incredible support of the DODD ARPA Workforce Support Grant, and we’re thrilled to share our progress and experiences with you.

January: Discovering Our “Why”

We kicked off the year with a fundamental and thought-provoking session centered around discovering our “Why.” Partnering with John Silfies of Silfies Media, we created an engaging interview-style video that prompted deep reflection on why we are passionate about our work and our organization. This initial exploration set the stage for a transformative journey, encouraging participants to connect their personal motivations with their professional roles.

February: Balancing Fulfillment and Team Building

February’s session was a blend of introspection and interactive fun. The morning focused on employee fulfillment and the pursuit of personal goals, dreams, and desires. In the afternoon, we shifted gears to a lively team-building experience at the Game Show Battle Rooms in Hilliard, OH. Teams competed in game show-style challenges, fostering camaraderie and reinforcing the power of teamwork in a light-hearted setting.

March: Crafting Leadership Philosophies at Top Golf

March took us to Top Golf for a morning of inspiration and strategy. We delved into personal motivation, crafting our own Leadership Philosophies and Guiding Principles. The session seamlessly combined learning with play, as we applied strategic thinking to our golf game, highlighting how success often hinges on a well-thought-out approach.

April: The Art of Juggling

In April, we tackled the concept of juggling – both in our personal and professional lives. We spent the day at Open Door mastering the art of physical juggling with Juggler & Magician, Jovial Joey. This hands-on activity provided a playful yet profound lesson in managing multiple responsibilities and the challenges that come with it.

May: Organizational Advocacy and Improv Skills at COSI

May’s session took us to COSI, where we explored organizational advocacy and honed our improv communication skills. Engaging with leaders from OADSP, OPRA, First Financial Bank, and Independence of Portage County, Inc., we faced questions that tested our knowledge and quick-thinking abilities. The day at COSI was not only educational but also a lot of fun, adding a layer of excitement to our learning experience.

June: Check-In – Showcasing Our Progress

By June, it was time for our first check-in on work samples developed from each session. These assignments aim to reflect our understanding and application of the lessons learned, turning theory into practice. As we each prepare to showcase our individual creative interpretations of these work samples at the end of the year, the anticipation and excitement among the participating staff are building!

July: Active Listening and Communication at Battelle Darby Creek

In July, we took our Next Level Leadership Training to the scenic Betelle Darby Creek Metro Park, where our focus was on active listening and communication. The day was packed with activities designed to enhance our skills, including assessments to identify our strengths and group exercises that put our new techniques to the test. We wrapped up the session with a delicious cookout, making the most of the beautiful weather and the opportunity for team building. The park provided a perfect backdrop for a day that was both productive and enjoyable, combining learning with the pleasure of great food and camaraderie.

August: Scavenger Hunt at Kings Island

In August, our Next Level Leadership Training took us to Kings Island for an exciting scavenger hunt competition! Equipped with a list of rides, attractions, and activities, each with assigned point values, our goal was to score as many points as possible. While the competition was fierce, the real win was the fun and camaraderie we enjoyed as we explored the park together. It was a fantastic way to blend team building with the excitement of Kings Island!

As we continue through our Next Level Leadership Training Series, our commitment to personal and professional growth remains steadfast. We look forward to sharing more insights and updates as we progress through the year. Stay tuned for more updates as we unlock our potential and strive to be better leaders for our organization!

Thank you for following our journey. Here’s to continued learning and growth!