FARMINGTON – Learning how to turn a vision into a community project or how to become a better leader are two reasons to participate in basic leadership training offered through the Lead Western Maine program, organizers say.

Applications are being accepted for the sixth annual series that will meet weekly from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays at locations throughout Franklin, Oxford and Somerset counties, said Kathleen Beauregard, facilitator for the Western Mountains Alliance program.

The series includes 10 sessions running from Jan. 2 through March 19, she added. Applications are accepted until Dec. 29.

A diverse group of people have attended the previous programs, said Beauregard on Monday. Many are working on a community project while others are seeking some level of skill development for themselves, she said.

The sessions deal with topics such as how to inspire others and build collaboration, raise funds and write grants, run effective meetings, present ideas to the public and public speaking. While Beauregard facilitates, she brings in professionals and community leaders to help with each session.

“It’s basic training or community building 101,” she said. “We teach a leadership theory that helps people recognize that every person has leadership capabilities. We give them tools, skills and tips so they can learn what it takes to lead an effort.”

The training dismisses the idea that leadership is something that only certain people of certain economic or social position can do, she said.

There are always people working on something or passionate about creating a positive change in their community, she said, as she spoke of examples of those who have participated in previous sessions.

People, such as one who had an idea for a paper heritage museum and wanted to figure out how to start and another, who wanted to promote a project on diabetes education, have taken the training, she said.

But having a project in mind isn’t necessary, she said. Some people may just have some ideas but not a project while others want to explore their leadership skills. As part of serving on a committee, some may learn how to be more supportive of the leader, she said.

The course also encourages making connections and relationships with other people who have the expertise to help the individual bring positive change within their community, she said.

While the course is 10 sessions, Beauregard said, some workshops for the spring are being considered that would be offered on a one-time basis and would allow some evening leadership programs and workshops.

More information is available online at www.westernmountainsalliance.org or by contacting Beauregard at 778-3885.