Lennox, SD – A group of volunteers in Lennox have announced the launch of the “Lennox Citizens Academy” (LCA), a program designed to give those who live and/or work in the town a behind-the-scenes look into how the community operates. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about topics including public safety and emergency services, economic development and local business, non-profit organizations, schools, and city and county government.
“Lennox has seen tremendous economic growth over the past several years, and that has brought in a lot of new residents and industries,” said Karlie Hammer, an employee of the City of Lennox and a member of the volunteer group leading the program. “We want to give newcomers—as well longtime residents looking for ways to be more involved—a chance to become more engaged and better informed about what’s going on in the community.”
LCA will host sessions on the fourth Wednesday of the month from January to May from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Participants are expected to attend all five sessions. A meal will be served at the beginning of every session. At the end of the program, participants will complete a group service project benefiting the community.
“Small, rural communities like Lennox really rely on their citizens stepping up in order to function,” Hammer said. “Whether it’s with the city, their church, or some other cause or organization, we need passionate, talented people to step up and help keep Lennox moving in the right direction. Our hope is that we find people with that passion, and the LCA can give them the knowledge and connections they need to make a difference.”
LCA will be accepting applications for the first program cohort through XXXX, with the final class size limited to XXX. Applications can be found online at https://www.cityoflennoxsd.com/page/lennox-citizens-academy.. Those interested and looking for more information can contact the group via email at lennoxcitizensacademy@gmail.com or by calling 605-647-2286.