Local business leaders Bette Doster and Ed Holland’s paths might never have crossed were it not for their shared American Leadership Forum (ALF) Fellow experience. ALF Charlotte selects 20 established leaders from various sectors and local regions. Together, these leaders partake in a year-long program that focuses on learning and trust building. The significance of their collaboration is as powerful as the regional solutions they brainstorm.
In an effort to capture the positive impact ALF has on the community, Hive students in Rock Hill, SC, recorded interviews with several ALF Senior Fellows. The most recent Web Video, featuring Bette Doster, Special Assistant to Chancellor for Constituent Relations – UNC Charlotte, and Ed Holland, Church Administrator – Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, captures the life changing power of the organization. The year long program culminates in a four night, five day wilderness experienced called Outward Bound. The experience leaves quite an impact on participants. For Holland, it made a huge difference on how he views the world. For Doster, the wilderness experience forged a protective bond with her teammates.
A common theme resonates throughout each one of the ALF Web Videos. It is an understanding that regional problems frequently cross state and county lines, therefore, regional solutions must also cross these lines. Alliances, AKA friendships, formed through the Charlotte Region of American Leadership Forum possess a rare opportunity to work collaboratively for the benefit of the communities they serve.