STRENGTHEN YOUR LEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 STRENGTHEN YOUR LEADERSHIP LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK

2 CONTENTS CONTENTS... I INTRODUCTION... 2 OVERVIEW... 3 CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY MODEL... 4 LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS. 8 BRIDGE PROGRAM CERTIFICATION TESTS & ASSESSMENTS RECERTIFICATION ADDITIONAL INFORMATION APPENDIX A: ESTIMATED COSTS APPENDIX B: ONLINE DEGREE COLLABORATIONS Vice President of Training and Leadership Development: Terri Radcliff Senior Director of Organizational Change Management: Kathy Kuras Director of Career Development: Suzanne Mackey Designers: Francine Ziev Copyright 2010, YMCA of the USA. All rights reserved.

3 With the pace of change facing our communities and the dramatic strategic and operational challenges we will face in the future, the Y profession demands highly trained staff to lead the Y of the future. A robust philosophy of leadership development based on competencies and proficiencies is essential to attract and train the best and the brightest new professionals in the movement and also to maintain our current leaders on the cutting edge of leadership and management practices. Gordon Echtenkamp, President and CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas

4 INTRODUCTION The Y s cause is to strengthen community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. To fulfill this promise, Ys require strong cause-driven leadership to affect lasting personal and social change in our organization s three areas of focus: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. This means leaders are strong in nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. We must prepare the next generation of Y leaders by encouraging and rewarding a commitment to professional development and lifelong learning. The Y s CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model and Leadership Certification provide our staff with a strategic and intentional approach to do just that they are designed to help individuals build the skills, abilities and knowledge needed to succeed and shine in our organization. The Leadership Certification is a credentialing process specific to the Y. Based on the Competency Model; the process includes three certifications that correspond to the progressive levels of leadership responsibility defined by the competency model. Each certification has distinct requirements, which may include formal training courses, electives, prerequisites and a certification test. Obtaining your Leadership Certification reflects your personal and professional achievements and enriches self-esteem. It increases your confidence because you have validated that you know and can apply core leadership competencies. Obtaining Leadership Certification also demonstrates that you are committed to your development at the Y, and can set you apart from your peers when applying for new professional opportunities. Thank you for taking the time to understand the Leadership Certification process and for your dedication to your own learning and professional advancement. Your passion and leadership will help ensure that the Y preserves our position as a world-class human development organization that strengthens the foundations of communities. Terri Radcliff Vice President Training and Leadership Development YMCA of the USA LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 2

5 OVERVIEW To support leadership development, the Leadership Certification went into effect January 2010 and replaced the Director Certification (Director, Professional Director and Senior Director). This handbook provides information on the major components of the Leadership Certification and is organized by the following sections: 1. CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model The Leadership Certification is based on the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model. This section provides a snapshot of the key components of the Competency Model. A variety of resources that provide detailed information on the Competency Model are located in the Training & Leadership Development section on Exchange. 2. Leadership Certification Requirements This section provides a detailed description of the requirements for each of the Leadership Certifications including courses, testing and recertification requirements. 3. Bridge Program The Bridge Program is designed to acclimate new Y professionals who began their careers in the Y as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders and Organizational Leaders. The Bridge Program is designed to prepare them for cause-driven leadership through training, experience, and a network of support. Additionally, the program provides an alternative certification pathway for those who start their Y careers as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders, Organizational Leaders and CEOs. This section provides the entry requirements and the certification requirements for the Bridge Program. 4. Certification Tests & Assessment A test or assessment is required to complete each certification. 5. Recertification Recertification is required to maintain the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the Organizational Leader Certification. The Recertification requirement applies to those who obtain the new Leadership Certification and those who previously earned the Professional Director and Senior Director Certifications. This section describes the requirements for recertification. In addition, appendices outlining the estimated costs of the Leadership Certification and information on online degree collaborations are included at the end of the handbook. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 3

6 CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY MODEL The Leadership Certification is based on the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model. The Competency Model is the foundation for designing all leadership development strategies and tactics. The Competency Model is: Comprised of 18 Competencies Organized by the four disciplines of Cause-driven Leadership: Mission Advancement Collaboration Operational Effectiveness Personal Growth Organized into four levels of leadership: Leader Team Leader Multi-Team or Branch Leader Organizational Leader The following pages provide a brief overview of the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model and details on the four levels of leadership. The complete Competency Model as well as multiple resources including an Assessment, Development Guide, Development Plan, and Interview Guide among other resources may be found in the Training and Leadership Development section of Exchange. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 4

7 LEADERSHIP LEVELS AND LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION The four leadership levels within the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model represent the progressive leadership responsibilities across all staff positions. The Leadership Certification aligns with these levels, and is achieved when staff complete the certification requirements. Staff should focus on achieving the certification level that aligns with their current leadership level. For staff that have achieved that certification level, and are successful in their current role, and anticipate continuing to grow their career at the Y in the near future, it may be appropriate to begin pursuing the next certification level. Consider this example: As a program director, Joel s job falls into the Team Leader level. Joel has been a program director for four years and has achieved the Team Leader Certification by fulfilling the requirements. Joel aspires to be an associate branch executive and will begin working to achieve the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification during the next year. During this time, Joel may or may not advance into a Multi- Team or Branch Leader role, but he is preparing himself to meet his career goals by working toward the certification now. This will give him the enhanced skills, abilities, and knowledge he needs to be successful when opportunities arise. 70/20/10 LEARNING MODEL The central theme behind developing Competencies focuses on identifying areas for change and creating opportunities to practice new skills. Foundational to this process is the 70/20/10 Learning Model. Seventy percent of learning and development takes place from real-life, challenging on-the-job experiences, tasks and problem solving. Twenty percent of learning and development comes from coaching, feedback, and observing and working with role models. Ten percent of learning and development comes from formal training. The 70/20/10 Leaning Model is embedded into the course work and recertification process of the Leadership Certification. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 5

8

9 LEADERSHIP LEVELS WITHIN THE CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY MODEL To more fully understand the levels of leadership in the Competency Model, refer to the chart below. Job titles vary from Y to Y, and similar titles may have very different responsibilities among Ys across the country. Therefore, the table below is a place to start in determining which level is the most relevant for you and your position. When reading the descriptions, think about which best describes your responsibilities on a day-to-day basis. LEADER LEVEL DESCRIPTION POTENTIAL POSITION TITLES LEADER TEAM LEADER Any staff member without supervisory responsibilities performing a direct service to members; an individual contributor. Any staff member performing supervisory duties with direct reports. Any staff member who regularly leads a team of staff or volunteers without direct supervisory responsibility. Any staff member, with or without staff supervisory responsibility, who regularly leads a process, project or function with significant scope and potential impact. membership service staff; program staff, including child care center and site staff, lifeguard, swim instructor, day camp counselor, fitness instructor, child watch staff, and teen staff; weight room attendant; facility or maintenance staff; administrative assistant; association staff in payroll, accounting, human resources and marketing; any volunteer program staff child care site supervisors; day camp directors; fitness coordinators; aquatics directors; health and wellness directors; front desk supervisors; lifeguard shift managers; facility staff supervising hourly staff; program coordinators of single departments; community development directors; human resources managers; financial development managers; grant writers; accountants; association department leaders who directly supervise others or who regularly lead a team made up of staff from across the association without direct supervisory responsibility; association cabinet team leaders serving cross-functional teams from across the association; program volunteers supervising or leading other volunteers. MULTI-TEAM or BRANCH LEADER Any staff member managing multiple team leaders/supervisors representing multiple departments. Any staff member who regularly leads multiple teams of staff or volunteers without direct supervisory responsibility. Any staff member who provides tactical and operational leadership to multiple departments within a Y branch or association corporate office. Any staff member, with or without staff supervisory responsibilities, who regularly leads multiple processes, projects or functions with significant scope and potential impact. branch executive directors; branch associate executives; branch operations directors; specialists or departmental directors at the association level providing consultation or guidance to a specific program area or service (example: marketing director, communications director, program development director, product line manager, association teen specialist, relationship manager for Activate America, etc.); program/membership coordinator; director; and senior program director (with multiple department or team responsibilities). Note: This level has been identified as critical for branch executive directors. ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER Staff members who provide strategic and visionary leadership to the organization. C-Level positions (i.e. chief executive officers, chief operating officers, chief financial officers, chief development officers); senior vice presidents; vice presidents of operations and/or association departments; and some specialists to support specific strategies. LEADERSHIP CERTIFCATION HANDBOOK page 7

10 LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS The Leadership Certification is based on the progressive levels of leadership responsibility outlined in the Y s CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model. The table below shows how the Leadership Competency Model and the Leadership Certification are aligned. There are four leadership levels in the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model (top row) Leadership Certifications are offered in three of the four leadership levels (bottom row) LEADERSHIP LEVELS AND LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION LEADERSHIP LEVELS Leader Team Leader Multi-Team or Branch Leader Organizational Leader LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION None Program and Membership trainings are offered to support development at this level Team Leader Certification Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Organizational Leader Certification Each leadership certification is designed for the corresponding level of leadership. The Team Leader Certification is designed for those in Team Leader positions, the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification is designed for those in Multi-Team or Branch Leader Level positions, and the Organizational Leader Certification is designed for those in the Organizational Leader positions. It is recommended that staff begin a Leadership Certification as they transition or are about to transition into the corresponding leadership level position. For example, the Organizational Leader Certification is designed for those who are in Organizational Leader roles or are about to be in Organizational Leader positions. The Certification levels must be completed in order and it is recommended that you take the courses within each certification level before taking courses in the next level. For instance, the Team Leader Certification must be obtained before you are certified in the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification, which must be obtained before you are certified in the Organizational Leader Certification. However, if an individual course is critical to your current work, you may decide to take an individual course from another certification level before completing the certification you are working on you can apply credits when you begin working towards the applicable certification. For example, you may be ready to begin the Team Leader Certification and decide to first take the Project Management course (from the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification) because the project management skills are critical to your current work. Keep in mind, individual courses may also have prerequisites which are identified in the course descriptions in Learning & Career Development Center found on Exchange. The following pages outline the requirements for each of the certifications. All three certifications require a test or assessment to complete the certification and the Multi-Team or Branch Leader and Organizational Leader Certifications require recertification every 5 years to maintain the certifications. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 8

11 TEAM LEADER CERTIFICATION The Team Leader Certification is designed to help prepare staff members as they transition into team leader responsibilities. The primary focus of the Team Leader Certification is to inspire and motivate staff toward a career in the Y; provide knowledge of Y history and mission imperatives; and provide foundational knowledge of the leadership competencies. TEAM LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE REQURIMENTS Principles and Practices (3 days) Introduction to Volunteerism (1 day) Introduction to Leading Others (2 days) Introduction to Fiscal Management (2 days) Online Leadership Competency Assessment Team Leader Certification Test Recertification: There is no recertification requirement for the Team Leader Certification. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 9

12 MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER CERTIFICATION The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification is designed to prepare staff as they transition or as they are about to transition into Multi-Team or branch leadership roles and offers 3 Tracks to choose from: General Track provides foundational knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Multi- Team or Branch Leader level. Executive Preparatory Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who aspire to become Executive Directors or similar positions and who are selected through an application process. New Branch Executive Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who are in their first 1-2 years as a Branch Executive Director (or equivalent positions such as Center Directors and Branch Directors) in a multi-unit YMCA. MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE REQUIREMENTS GENERAL TRACK COURSES OR EXECUTIVE PREPARATORY TRACK COURSES OR NEW BRANCH EXECUTIVE TRACK COURSES Team Leader Certification Prerequisite Team Leader Certification Prerequisite Team Leader Certification Prerequisite Leading & Coaching Others (2 days) Executive Preparatory Institute (Five month program including one 4 day session with assignments & web-based learning) New Branch Executive Institute (8 month program including two 4 day sessions with assignments & web-based learning) Annual Community Support Campaign (3 days) Annual Community Support Campaign (3 days) Executive Fundraising (3 days) Advanced Fiscal Management (2 days) Advanced Fiscal Management (2 days) Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test Project Management (1 day) 16 Elective Credits* 32 Elective credits * Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test * See an updated list of eligible elective courses in the Learning and Career Development Center on Exchange: ( under My Learning > Certification Status > View Progress Recertification: The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years through completing 20 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) and completing the online Leadership Competency Assessment (available via Exchange). You may also begin pursuing the Organizational Leader Certification. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 10

13 ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER CERTIFICATION The Organizational Leader Certification is designed to prepare staff as they transition or as they are about to transition into organizational leadership roles and offers 2 Tracks to choose from: General Track provides foundational knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Organizational Leader level. ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE REQUIREMENTS GENERAL TRACK COURSES Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Prerequisite Leading Change (3 days) OR ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP FORUM TRACK COURSES Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Prerequisite Organizational Leadership Forum (4 month cohort program in collaboration with University of Notre Dame s Mendoza School of Business) 32 Elective Credits* Organizational Leader Capstone Organizational Leader Capstone * See an updated list of eligible elective courses in the Learning and Career Development Center ( ) under My Learning > Certification Status > View Progress Recertification: The Organizational Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) and completing the Online Leadership Competency Assessment ( LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 11

14 LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION Tracking Your Progress You can easily track your progress towards certification in the Learning and Career Development Center, your personalized Progress Report will show you what classes you have completed and what classes you still need to take in order to earn the certification. To view your progress, log in to LCDC ( and follow the instructions below: 1. Navigate to My Learning 2. Click on Certification Status 3. Select View Progress 4. Select Leadership Progress 5. Select Certification Name 6. Select Certification Track Taking the Test or Assessment All Certifications require a Test or Assessment to earn the certification. When you have completed the required courses you can then go and access the test. To access the test, log in to LCDC ( and follow the instructions below: 1. Navigate to My Learning 2. Click on Test or Assessments 3. Expand the Leadership section by clicking on the gray arrow 4. Select the Test or Assessment that pertains to you (Team Leader Certification Test, Multi- Team or Branch Leader Test or Organizational Leader Capstone) 5. If you DO meet the requirements the system will direct you to a link that goes to the test or allows you to schedule your test or assessment 6. If you DO Not meet the requirements the system will inform you of what course you are missing and must take before you can access the test LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 12

15 Submitting your Application To Complete a Certification All of the Leadership Certifications require an application to complete. When you have met all the requirements the system will display a link to apply for certification. To get to this information follow the steps below: To apply to complete a certification, log in to LCDC ( follow the instructions below: Navigate to My Learning or My Records My Learning Pathway My Records Pathway Navigate to My Learning Navigate to My Records Click on Certification Status Select Online Applications and Uploads Select View Progress Select Apply to Complete Certification Select Leadership Progress Select Certification Name View your Progress, if you have completed the required courses you will have a red link that states you can apply for the certification, click on the link. You will be asked to provide a Supervisor s Name and address, review all of your information and then click submit. Please note the system will ask if you want to submit a resume or degree, this is NOT REQUIRED for Team Leader or Multi-Team or Branch Leader but it is REQUIRED for Organizational Leader Certification. The system will send you an letting you know your application has been received, for Team Leader and Multi-Team the certification will automatically appear on your transcript. Organizational Leader Certification must be approved by Y-USA. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 13

16 BRIDGE PROGRAM Realizing that professionals enter the movement from diverse backgrounds and with significant leadership experience, it s important to offer an accelerated pathway to obtaining Leadership Certification. The Bridge Program is designed to meet the needs for new Y professionals who begin careers in the Y as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders and Organizational Leaders. The Bridge Program prepares them for cause-driven leadership through training, experiences, and a network of support. The Bridge Program will provide: Support and access to a network of colleagues and peers. Foundational knowledge about the Y and its mission and values. Access to Y resources, tools and best practices. Guidance on how to leverage previous experience to the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for success in a cause-focused organization. An alternative pathway to Leadership Certification. There are three Bridge Programs for those who started their Y career as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders, Organizational Leaders, and CEOs: Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program to complete the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Organizational Leader Bridge Program to complete the Organizational Leader Certification CEO Bridge Program to complete the Organizational Leader Certification All of the Bridge Programs require an application process. The Bridge Program Application may be found in the Learning & Career Development Center, ( ) under My Records > Online Application & Uploads > Apply to Begin Certification. The following pages outline the qualifications and requirements for the three Bridge Programs. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 14

17 BRIDGE PROGRAM Applying to Begin Certification Submit Your Application To apply for your certification, log in to LCDC ( and follow the instructions below: 1. Navigate to My Records 2. Select Online Applications and Uploads 3. Select Apply to Begin Certification 4. Select the Certification and Certification Track 5. Review the My Information section and update where necessary 6. Review Supervisor Information section and update where necessary 7. Complete the Education Section (you must upload your current resume and proof of your Bachelor s Degree diploma or transcript) 8. Complete the My Career Section 9. Click Submit Please note: you can see the status of your application by viewing the Submitted Applications, Licenses, & Uploads. Tracking Your Progress You can easily track your progress towards certification in the Learning and Career Development Center, your personalized Progress Report will show you what classes you have completed and what classes you still need to take in order to earn the certification. To view your progress, log in to LCDC ( and follow the instructions below: 1. Navigate to My Learning 2. Click on Certification Status 3. Select View Progress 4. Select Leadership Progress 5. Select Certification Name 6. Select Certification Track LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 15

18 Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program offers staff 3 Tracks to choose from: Bridge - General Track provides foundational knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level. Bridge - Executive Preparatory Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who aspire to become Executive Directors or similar positions and who are selected through an application process. Bridge - New Branch Executive Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who are in their first 1-2 years as a Branch Executive Director (or equivalent positions such as Center Directors and Branch Directors) in a multi-unit YMCA. Criteria for Entering the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program Begun your Y career as a Multi-Team or Branch Leader 5 or more years of leadership and management experience The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the program. Y-USA will provide support and guidance to ensure that you complete all requirements while in the Bridge Program. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 16

19 MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Participants of the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program are encouraged to complete Principles and Practices first before completing the other requirements. The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the Bridge Program from Y-USA. MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM COURSE REQUIREMENTS GENERAL TRACK COURSES OR EXECUTIVE PREPARATORY TRACK COURSES OR NEW BRANCH EXECUTIVE TRACK COURSES Principles and Practices (3 days) Leading & Coaching Others (2 days) Annual Community Support Campaign (3 days) Introduction to Fiscal Management (2 Days) Advanced Fiscal Management (2 days) Introduction to Volunteerism (1 day) Project Management (1 day) Online Leadership Competency Assessment Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test Principles and Practices (3 days) Executive Preparatory Institute (Five month program including one 4 day session with assignments & web-based learning) Annual Community Support Campaign (3 days) Introduction to Fiscal Management (2 Days) Advanced Fiscal Management (2 days) Online Leadership Competency Assessment Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test Principles and Practices (3 days) New Branch Executive Institute (8 month program including two 4 day sessions with assignments & web-based learning) YMCA Executive Fundraising (3 days) Online Leadership Competency Assessment Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test Recertification: The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) and completing the Online Leadership Competency Assessment. You may also begin pursuing the Organizational Leader Certification. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 17

20 ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM To complete the Organizational Leader Certification This program is designed for those who begin their Y career as Organizational Leaders. Positions that qualify for this program include: C-Level positions (i.e., Chief Operating Officers, Chief Financial Officers, Chief Development Officers); Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents of operations and/or association departments; and some specialists to support specific strategies. Note: There is another program created specifically for CEOs with details found on page 19. Criteria for Entering the Organizational Leader Bridge Program The Organizational Leader Bridge Program has two tracks: General and CEO Begun your Y career as an Organizational Leader or CEO Bachelor s Degree from an accredited university is required 8 or more years of leadership and management experience The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the program from Y-USA. Y-USA will provide support and guidance to ensure that you complete all requirements while in the Bridge Program. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 18

21 ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Participants of the Organizational Leader Bridge Program are encouraged to follow the recommended sequence and time frame for completing requirements. The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the Bridge Program from Y-USA. REQUIRED COURSES Online Leadership Competency Assessment Bridge Principles and Practices Conduct Peer Visit or Observation 16 Elective Credits from a predefined list of eligible courses* Leading Change Organizational Leader Capstone (this is the final requirement and can only be completed after all the other courses have been completed) * See an updated list of eligible elective courses in the Learning and Career Development Center ( ) under My Learning > Certification Status > View Progress Recertification: The Organizational Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) and completing the Online Leadership Competency Assessment. CEO BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS Participants of the Organizational Leader Bridge program are encouraged to follow the recommended sequence and time frame for completing requirements. The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the Bridge Program from Y-USA. CEO BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS REQUIRED COURSES Online Leadership Competency Assessment New CEO Institute (includes Governance course) Bridge Principles and Practices Conduct Peer Visit or Observation Board Leadership Leading Change Organizational Leader Capstone (this is the final requirement and can only be completed after all the other courses have been completed) Recertification: The Organizational Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) and completing the online Leadership Competency Assessment. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 19

22 CERTIFICATION TESTS & ASSESSMENTS CREATING TESTS & ASSESSMENTS Working collaboratively with outside experts, the Y follows certification-industry best practices to create and update our Certification Tests and Assessments. The test is carefully developed and maintained by Y-USA. The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Test and the Team Leader Certification Test contains multiple-choice questions designed to test the leadership competencies needed for success at the appropriate leadership level. Test questions are written by item writers who have been selected to reflect racial, ethnic, gender, and geographic diversity. A Test Committee, composed of content experts balanced for diversity, reviews and selects questions to be placed on the Team Leader Test. Y-USA also works to ensure that the test is a fair measure of competency regardless of the race or gender of the test-taker. As part of this effort, every test item undergoes a statistical and sensitivity analysis; if such analysis demonstrates any race or gender bias, the item is deleted. AVAILABLE TESTS Team Leader Certification Test Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Test Organizational Leader Capstone These can be found in the Learning & Career Development Center on Exchange: ( under My Learning > Tests & Assessments LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 20

23 RECERTIFICATION CONTINUAL DEVELOPMENT Continual development of the Leadership Competencies will help to build the leadership needed to meet the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve. Leadership development is a career-long process, and recertification requirements support and enable this process by providing a way to capture the time spent engaging in lifelong learning. The recertification process encourages and rewards lifelong learning with an emphasis on developing both yourself and others. Staff who are content with their current job and do not have plans to seek out additional or new responsibilities still have the opportunity and the obligation to continually strive to enhance their skills and competencies. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Recertification is required to maintain the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the Organizational Leader Certification. One hundred and sixty (160) Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) every 5 years and completion of the Online Leadership Competency Assessment are required for recertification. Forty (40) of the One hundred and sixty (160) must be earned by attending Y-USA courses, events, workshops or leadership roles. Please note: you may earn more than 160 LCC s in a Recertification Cycle. Credit earned above the 160 required LCC s for certification may not be carried over to the next Recertification Cycle. The Recertification requirement also applies to those who earned the Professional Director and Senior Director Certifications and whose certifications have been converted to the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the Organizational Leader Certification. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 21

24 TRACKING YOUR PROGRESS TOWARDS RECERTIFICATION The Learning and Career Development Center will provide you with Recertification Summary Report. This report will allow you to track your progress toward recertification. Below is an outline of the report you will see in LCDC providing summary information regarding your recertification progress and the activity detail for all activities completed during the recertification period. Please note that any credits earned beyond the total number of credits needed for the current recertification period WILL NOT carry over to your next recertification period. Example of Recertification Summary Report from LCDC Achievement Info Current Certification Level Achieved: Organizational Leader Certification Date Achieved: 12/22/2009 Expiration Date: 12/31/2015 Recertification Summary Your recertification period begins on 12/23/2009. You must complete all recertification requirements by 12/31/2015. Have requirements been met? Yes Date Eligible to Begin Earning Credit: 12/23/2009 Recertification Expiration Date: 12/31/2015 Total Credits Required for Recertification: 160 Total Credits Earned for Recertification (to date): of 160 Total Y-USA Sponsored Credits Earned for Recertification (to date):124 of 40 Recertification Credit Summary For your current certification, you may earn recertification credits in multiple categories. The information below provides an overview of the total credits you have earned to date for each of the available categories. 40 of the 160 total credits required for recertification must be Y-USA Sponsored Credits (i.e. earned through completing Y-USA Sanctioned Courses or Activities). To view your progress, log in to LCDC ( and follow the instructions below: 1. Navigate to My Learning 2. Click on Certification Status 3. Select View Renewal/Recertification 4. Select Leadership Progress 5. Select Certification Name LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 22

25 SELECTING ACTIVITIES FOR RECERTIFICATION Since the central focus of recertification is on developing the Leadership Competencies, you ll want to focus on activities which develop the Leadership Competencies you ve identified. The Online Leadership Competency Assessment provides the opportunity to rate your skill in each of the 18 Leadership Competencies and provide you with results. The Assessment Results will provide a foundation for selecting Leadership Competencies to develop, creating a Development Plan and selecting activities for recertification. For information on accessing the Leadership Competency Assessment and Development Guide, see the Additional Information section of the Handbook. RECERTIFICATION CATEGORIES The Leadership Competency Credits (LCC s) can be earned in a variety of ways including attending courses, teaching and presenting, and on-the-job experiences. There are five categories which contain a variety of activities to earn LCC s for Recertification. I. Continuing Education II. Instruction III. Leadership Role IV. Research and Publishing V. Project The first category, Continuing Education, is based on formal training or education, whereas the other four categories are earned through experience. In addition, the process recognizes the importance of giving back to others and contributing one s knowledge and experience to the larger YMCA movement through the categories of Instruction, Leadership Role, and Research and Publishing. One hundred and sixty (160) Leadership Competency Credits are required every 5 years to maintain the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the Organizational Leader Certification. You can earn the entire 160 credits in the Continuing Education category. However, there are a maximum number of credits that may be accumulated in the other categories. Recertification: Category Descriptions The following pages provide a description of the activities for each category of Recertification and the maximum credits that may be accumulated in each category over the 5-year Recertification Cycle. In addition to the category requirements: A minimum of 40 credits must be earned through activities listed on the Y-USA Sponsored Activities for Recertification document (found on Exchange, ). Y-USA sponsored activities are assigned a number of credits or in the case of most conferences, are listed as part of conference materials. The remaining credits may be earned through activities with your local YMCA, other local or national organizations, and educational institutions. I. Continuing Education (40 credits minimum / 160 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle) Continuing Education includes completing formal training, courses, institutes; masters and doctorate degrees; participating in conference workshops or seminars; participating in AYP Learning Circles; LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 23

26 and participating in local leadership development programs. To qualify, the instruction content must focus on at least one of the Leadership Competencies. Calculating credit for Continuing Education: Courses All Leadership Competency Courses will have a credit allocation that can be found in the course description in LCDC at ( If you search for the Certification in the LCDC you will be able to see all the Y-USA Sponsored Activities. Any course completed through Y-USA should appear on your Y Training Transcript, if it does not appear please contact the Y-USA Contact Center, If you attend a course inside the Y the credit conversion is as follows: ½ day (3-4 hours) = 4 credits 1 day (5-8 hours) = 8 credits 1.5 days (9-12 hours) = 12 credits 2 days (16 hours) or more = 16 credits Conferences/Workshops/Seminars There is a 16 credit maximum for qualifying workshops at conferences and meetings. The number of credits applies to the length of the workshop portion of the conference or meeting which focuses on at least one of the 18 Leadership Competencies (not the length of the entire conference). o o o o ½ day (3-4 hours) = 4 credit 1 day (5-8 hours) = 8 credit 1.5 days (9-12 hours) = 12 credits 2 days (16 hours) or more = 16 credits Non-Degree, Certification Courses and Institutes Courses, Certifications or Institutes obtained at a university or other educational institution as a non-degree student will count for the number of credits offered by the educational institution. Graduate or Doctorate Degrees Completion of a master s or doctorate degree will result in 160 Leadership Competency Credits. Please submit for credits once you have completed the program, proof of completion will be required. If you are requesting 160 credits for the completion of a master s or doctorate degree the 40 credits required from the Y-USA sponsored activity list will be waived. II. Instruction (40 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle) You will earn 8 credits for teaching a course, the first time you teach it, in a 12-month period. You will earn 8 credits for conducting a formal presentation at a workshop seminar or session at a conference. You will earn 8 credits regardless of the length of the presentation. To qualify, the instruction content must focus on at least one of the 18 Leadership Competencies. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 24

27 III. Leadership Role (40 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle) Credit can be earned through serving in a leadership role outside of your YMCA position responsibilities including serving on a committee or board and serving as a mentor or coach as part of a formal program. You will earn 8 credits for 12 months of service on a committee, board or other identified group. You will earn 8 credits for serving as a coach or mentor as part of a formal program. More credit may be assigned for serving in a leadership role in Y specific programs, for examples see the Y- USA Sponsored Activities for Recertification. IV. Research and Publishing (40 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle additional credit given for authoring a book) Credit can be earned by conducting research or writing on a leadership development related topic and publishing the content in a national Y publication or another national journal or publication. Articles published in a Y publication or national journal or publication and solely written by you will earn 16 credits. Articles co-authored by you will earn 8 credits. Chapters published in a book or manual and solely written by you or co-authored by you will earn 32 credits. A nationally published book solely written by you or co-authored by you will earn 120 credits. V. Project (64 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle) Credit can be earned through completing a Project Report describing a project that you have completed related to your work in the Y. The project must require you to develop leadership knowledge, skills and behaviors in at least one of the Leadership Competencies and have significant impact within the YMCA or community. The process for submitting the Project Report will include a review by your peers or colleagues and your supervisor. It will be reviewed and either 32 or 64 credits assigned based on the scope of the project and established criteria. A Project Report form is available on the Learning & Career Development Center and must be completed and approved before credit is awarded. What is a Project? A project is a temporary endeavor, having a defined beginning and end, undertaken to meet particular goals and objectives. The project will involve planning, organizing, and managing resources to bring about the successful completion of specific project goals and objectives. For recertification, a project must involve a focus on developing at least one of the 18 Leadership Competencies and you must be the project leader. In addition, the project must meet the Project Guidelines described on the following page. Project Requirements A. The project must be related to Y work either within the Y or in the community. B. The project must require you to develop leadership knowledge and skills in at least one of the 18 Leadership Competencies. C. The project must have impact within the Y or in the community. D. You are required to have a coach, development partner, or supervisor who will advise and support you while completing the project and who will endorse your Project Report. E. Three people must review and endorse your project your supervisor, a peer/colleague and a person who was impacted by the project. F. You are required to submit a Project Report LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 25

28 Project Assessment Criteria Any project submitted for recertification credits must be endorsed by your supervisor, a colleague/peer and a person impacted by the project. The project will also be reviewed by the Y-USA and will be awarded either 4 or 8 credits. The 32 or 64 credits will be awarded based on the contribution of the project to the YMCA, community and potentially the movement. In general, a rating of a 32 will be applied to those projects which met the project goals and made a significant contribution to the Y or community. A rating of 64 will be applied to those projects which exceeded the project goals, made an exceptional contribution to the Y or community and show promise for a significant contribution to the movement. The following areas will most impact the rating: a. Leadership Competency focus b. Impact on the Y and/or the community c. Involvement of community partners d. Potential contribution to the movement LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 26

29 SUBMITTING CREDITS FOR RECERTIFICATION Submission of Recertification Credits will be done through LCDC ( Allow the submission of Leadership Competency Credits for Recertification at any time during the 5-year Recertification Cycle Keep track of progress towards the 20 Leadership Competency Credits needed for Recertification TO BEGIN ENTERING LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY CREDITS FOR RECERTIFICATION: To input credits, log in to LCDC ( and follow the instructions below: 1. Navigate to My Records 2. Click on Online Applications and Uploads. 3. Select Submit Renewal/Recertification Credits 4. Select Certification Category Leadership Certification 5. Select Certification that activity applies towards 6. Select Renewal/Recertification activity category 7. Select Renewal/Recertification activity subcategory 8. Input responses for information about the activity (will vary depending on category and subcategory) 9. Click Submit AUDITING To maintain the integrity of the recertification process the Y-USA will randomly audit recertification submissions. It is not necessary to submit supporting documentation when applying for recertification unless it is specifically stated to do so (for example, with masters or doctorate degrees and with projects). However, if you are chosen for audit you will be asked to submit supporting documentation. You should therefore maintain documentation of the activities you submitted for credit until you receive confirmation of your credits from Y-USA. LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 27

30 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION Additional information on the Leadership Certification including Quick Reference Guides, FAQs, information on specific courses and the process for submitting certification and recertification requirements may be found in the Training and Leadership Development section on Exchange: CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY MODEL There are several tools available to assist you in assessing and developing Leadership Competencies. The Online Leadership Competency Assessment is available online through the LCDC which gives you the opportunity to assess your skill level in each of the 18 Leadership Competencies. The Leadership Competency Assessment is a requirement for certification and recertification in the Leadership Certification. Y-USA recommends that you take the Online Leadership Competency Assessment after being in a position at least 3 months and minimally every 2 years. It is required every 5 years for Recertification. The YMCA Leadership Competency Development Guide provides you with descriptions of the leadership competencies, suggested experience-based learning assignments, key coaching questions, valuable tips, training opportunities, and suggested readings and books. A Development Plan is available as part of the Assessment process to plan activities which will help you develop selected leadership competencies. For more information on the Competency Model and Tools, refer to the Training Leadership Development pages on Exchange: LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 28

31 APPENDIX A: ESTIMATED COSTS This section describes the estimated number of days and registration costs related to the required and elective courses included in the Leadership Certification. Making trainings more accessible and affordable is part of the delivery strategy in the Y-USA s Training and Leadership Development System. The new Trainer Partner Y System will bring training closer to Ys through Regional Training Events. For more information on the Training Partner Y system, see the Training and Leadership Development section on YMCA Exchange. The cost estimates provided on the following pages do not include any travel estimates, however, the majority of the courses will be offered through regional training events so the travel costs should be minimal. Institutes and Forums (requiring multiple sessions over multiple months) will be offered within and rotated through the four regions of the country and the costs will typically include lodging and food. The approximate costs in each table are based on pricing guidelines used by Training Partner Ys for Regional Training events and may change from year to year. TEAM LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE LENGTH AND APPROXIMATE FEES REQUIRED COURSES: COURSE LENGTH APPROXIMATE COURSE FEE COST: (DOES NOT INCLUDE TRAVEL & LODGING UNLESS INDICATED) Principles and Practices 3 days $725 Includes meals and lodging Introduction to Volunteerism 1 day $ Introduction to Leading Others 2 days $ Introduction to Fiscal Management course 1.5 days $ Leadership Competency Assessment online $25 for the self-assessment Team Leader Certification Test online $50 TOTAL 7.5 days Plus the Online Leadership Competency Assessment and Certification Test $1250 LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK page 29