Parents are their children's best advocates. The Parent Leadership Training Institute created by the Connecticut Commission on Children, the American Leadership Forum, and Leadership of Greater Hartford uphold this belief in communities throughout the state and nation.

In 1997, community organizations collaborated to establish the PLTI of Bridgeport. PLTI offers a stimulating curriculum designed to boost parents' leadership skills in order for them to improve the lifelong health, safety, and learning of children. Parents enhance their ability to speak out on issues and inform policy makers, the media, and others about the needs of families. PLTI graduates become strong voices and advocates for the next generation.

Selection

A diverse group of parents are selected from a large pool of applicants from the Bridgeport area who have an interest in developing effective leadership skills. Each candidate must complete an application and undergo an intensive interview process. To submit a pre-application, click here.

Program

Parents participate in three phases of training, utilizing interactive adult learning practices.

Phase 1: A retreat to develop a sense of community among the class members.

Phase 2: A 10-week instructional session on community and personal development.

Phase 3: A 10-week instructional session discussing government and civic relations.

Each parent concludes the program with an individual project of interest to practice what was learning during the three phases.