People who “get you”

After my first National Conference in 2009, I had the opportunity to meet Dave Clark at our first National Conference Host Team meeting in Indianapolis. At the beginning of the meeting he mentioned the Leadership Cohort program.  Having just enjoyed my first CCDA National Conference, and new to inner city ministry, I felt that this would be a perfect opportunity for me to learn from seasoned leaders and gain insight and support from those who were doing similar work.  I felt that I would be a better leader if I took the time to learn from other leaders.

After my first National Conference in 2009, I had the opportunity to meet Dave Clark at our first National Conference Host Team meeting in Indianapolis. At the beginning of the meeting he mentioned the Leadership Cohort program.  Having just enjoyed my first CCDA National Conference, and new to inner city ministry, I felt that this would be a perfect opportunity for me to learn from seasoned leaders and gain insight and support from those who were doing similar work.  I felt that I would be a better leader if I took the time to learn from other leaders.  I am so thankful that I was in the right place at the right time to hear Dave’s plea, because being part of Cohort #3 has exceeded my expectations, and has made me a better leader.

“I could not think of a better group of individuals to be around on the day I found out my sister was going to get a double lung transplant.”

I believe most importantly the cohort provides a support system and a team of cheerleaders around you.  There are 19 other people who “get you,” “understand your struggles” and “encourage you.”  I have made some close friends and people who I can call and email for advice.  Their advice, experience, input, and ideas have helped me improve my ministry.  Additionally, their love, support, and kindness has helped me through a tough year.  I could not think of a better group of individuals to be around on the day I found out my sister was going to get a double lung transplant. To have these 19 other people surround me and lift up my sister in prayer meant a lot. 

I feel that through this experience I have gained 19 reliable, educated, creative, insightful, loving, and caring resources that will help inspire me and equip me to be the best possible Director.  In our short time together, I have already modified programs at the LYN House.  I feel as a result we are reaching our neighbors in a more effective manner.  I was blessed that LYN House paid for me to have this experience.  I believe that it has been worth every penny invested. 

Heidi Lynn Lyda

www.lynhouse.org
CCDA Cohort #3

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