1. What are some of the things you appreciate most about Fayette County? I treasure the rural beauty of Fayette County and appreciate having many opportunities for outdoor recreation like horseback or ATV riding, kayaking, hunting, fishing, and more. With rivers, lakes, vast expanses of farmland, and wooded areas, there’s just no limit to the ways you can enjoy our beautiful county! The picturesque town square and nostalgic Woodburn Farms in the county seat of Somerville have always been personal favorites. But what I find unique about Fayette County is the sense of closeness; of a community that is more like a family. I believe this stems from true caring for one’s neighbors.
2. What was your motivation to attend Leadership Fayette? Although initially not familiar with the program, which was only in its second year, I was honored to be nominated and grateful for the opportunity to meet community leaders. I was eager to learn more about how to be of service and hoped to play an active role in creating a healthy community.
3. What have you personally gotten out of your involvement in Leadership Fayette? Not growing up in Fayette County, Leadership Fayette provided me an opportunity to learn about the history, government, services, and resources of our county. I was able to meet passionate community members whose support and knowledge broadened my thinking and expanded possibilities. With deepened insights, commitment, and relationships, the program helped me become engaged and empowered me to tackle difficult issues that affected our neighbors. I was fortunate to have been nominated by Senator Dolores Gresham to continue developing as a participant in the WestStar regional leadership program. Through the opportunities created by these leadership programs, I’ve been blessed to develop rich and diverse relationships that make my life and world better every day.
4. How did attending Leadership Fayette influence you as a leader? By participating in the program I learned more about myself, my peers, and my community. The skills and relationships allowed me to develop strategies and collaborations to help our community address some of its most challenging community problems surrounding poverty and abuse. Leadership Fayette was instrumental in my journey to expand the Fayette Cares emergency shelter, which would require mobilizing our entire community. From engaging youth and schools, faith communities, businesses, elected leaders, and others, the enthusiasm and support of my Leadership Fayette peers was always behind the scenes and ultimately made it possible for Fayette Cares to now have a shelter with 25+ beds and comprehensive services to help families in crisis find safety and stability.
5. Would you encourage others to get involved with Leadership Fayette? Why? Definitely! Leadership Fayette is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a group of exceptional people who are willing to take leadership roles in making a positive impact in our community. The group never loses its sense of fun and adventure, making it a lively bunch (right Ms. Molly?!) Now, who wouldn’t want to be part of that?!
6. What positive impact are you planning on having on Fayette County as a result of attending Leadership Fayette? Through collaborative efforts with fellow Leadership Fayette Alumni, Somerville Police Chief David Webb and Dr. Cheryl Browne, we are working to expand innovative programs to predict and prevent domestic violence in Fayette County. Through law enforcement partnerships with Fayette Cares, leaders in our community strive to ensure safety and support is readily available for victims of abuse at the highest risk of danger. Truly saving lives.
7. How did attending Leadership Fayette prepare you for your current and/or next career? The contacts and friendships made with fellow class members and recognized leaders have helped broaden my horizons allowing me to grow as an employee, a citizen, and a leader. I now have an exceptional group of leaders as both a resource and a source of support on my career and life journey.
Thank you, Alexandra Porto
If interested in learning more about Leadership Fayette or getting involved contact Molly McCarley at +1 (901) 413-3053 or via email at mollymccarley@gmail.com.
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