Awareness Washington County is currently accepting applications for the class of 2015-16 according to co-directors Debbie Mildenburger and Marji Morris.

Awareness Washington County is a community leadership organization that began in 1983. Over 500 graduates have participated in the class and continue to take an active role in the community.

The class meets monthly, September through May. Participants learn about the community. develop their personal leadership skills. Class members will actively explore the county’s history, local  economic and social issues, arts, and government. While guest speakers are a part of the class, the emphasis is on hands-on learning, discovery, and reflection.

The class will select and implement a project, based on the members’ interest and perception of community need.

Past projects include such areas as county beautification, downtown revitalization, historic preservation, leadership expansion, Lake Salinda development, and programs of benefit to youth, such as purchasing seats for the Pied Piper Theatre. The class of 2002 endowed a scholarship to honor community service and encourage young people to return to Salem after furthering their education. The 2003 class organized “Unify to Beautify Washington County,” a campaign to involve all parts of the community in cleaning up roadside dumps, streets and highways, and even creating a play area at the community park in Livonia.

Another class formed Friends of Beck’s Mill, which provided the framework to  restore Beck’s Mill, a site rich in early history, beauty, and memories. More recently, the class of 2014 created the Fitness Station on Homer Street, and the class of 2015 is Lighting the Way by installing lights along the walking trail.

Mildenburger and Morris encourage adults of all ages and backgrounds to apply for the class. “We would like to see the class reflect the diversity of the community,” Morris stated. “The greater the mix of people involved, the more successful the program will be.”

Morris and Mildenburger will contact those who apply in order to set up an interview during the summer.  Between 20-25 people will be selected for the class.

Applications should be submitted by July 30. An application form is included below. For further information, call 812-752-2278, 812-216-6505 or 812-896-1930 and leave a message.