The term "leadership" and "leader" are strange terms because their meanings have evolved over time.  This can be seen when you ask someone to describe the qualities of a good leader. You will generally hear the follwoing list: charisma, education, experience, wisdom, vision, strength, power, public speaking skills, negotiation skills, goals, money, relationships, etc.

This is a pretty lofty list and when this is the standard for what it takes to be a leader most people feel like they fall way short and don't even entertain the idea of seeing themselves as a leader.

In CUNA we believe that leadership is something else.  In fact we will define a leader with the follwoing phrase, "A leader is someone who has a following and can mobilize them."  That's it.

Other things CUNA looks for in its potential community leaders are a sense of humor, someone who is relational, wants to learn, and knows how to listen.  Most of the "attributes" that are associated with leadership are actually skills that can be taught, practiced, and honed. 

Below are just some of the women and men that make up the CUNA family.  CUNA like all PICO Affiliate Organizations are governed by local community members themselves.

Click the following link to read more about how CUNA views its leaders and the true meaning of leadership development. Human Dignity and Grassroots leadership Development.