The next Apache Junction Citizen Leadership Institute is scheduled for January-April 2024. This is your chance to learn about how municipal government works and find ways to engage in your community.

There is no charge to attend the Citizen Leadership Institute, but attendees must live, work, or volunteer within the city limits of Apache Junction. Attendees must attend six of the eight sessions, one City Council meeting, and one Planning and Zoning Commission meeting to be eligible for graduation. 

Sign Up Now! Follow this link to register online.

For additional information, please contact Apache Junction's Public Information Officer at (480) 474-5080 or by email.

The Citizen Leadership Institute began in 1998. The course content was derived after examining similar programs of other East Valley cities and then customizing it to fit Apache Junction. 

Any resident living within the city limits of Apache Junction or non-resident working or volunteering in Apache Junction is invited and encouraged to participate in the Citizen Leadership Institute. 

As diverse as our community is in Apache Junction, so are the students. Individuals who participate range from seniors who have lived in the area for over 20 years to those who have just moved to the area. The young and young at heart are encouraged to participate in this learning experience. The diversity works very well as it brings to the table a variety of points of view and a range of opinions on the various subject matters that are presented. 

Preparing for the Future

One of the goals is to give interested citizens an orientation for serving as possible future members of a City Board or Commission as well as being well-informed members of the community. 

The program has been successful in its goal of having residents participate on a City Board or Commission. Many graduates have gone on to serve. The pool of graduates is a great resource to invite to special events such as Town Halls, Open Houses, and the Open Space Task Force Committee, among others.