LEWISTON — Beginning on Wednesday, Sept. 3, and continuing through November, the Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute meets once per week at the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce, 415 Lisbon St.

The institute is designed to enhance leadership abilities through skill building and interactive sessions with experienced leaders. The program motivates aspiring leaders to assume positions of greater responsibility in business community organizations and government. It also fosters a greater understanding of the current and future needs of the community and the opportunities for individuals to make a meaningful difference in addressing those needs.

The 12-week program is led by professional facilitator Steve Pecukonis, who has designed and run leadership programs all across the state for more than 26 years. The institute has been approved for continuing education unit credits.

Preregistration, in the form of an application and letter of recommendation, is required. Call 783-2249 for additional information, a schedule and an application. Program tuition is $575.

The institute is sponsored by Central Maine Medical Center. Co-sponsors include Central Maine Community College and the University of Southern Maine, Lewiston-Auburn College.