Building Community in Civic Fellows
Each fall, local government leaders from across North Carolina assemble at the UNC School of Government for the Civic Fellows program—two transformative weeks of personal growth and leadership development. Designed to sharpen skills and build connections, the program offers more than just classes; it creates a network of support that participants carry with them for the rest of their careers.
“When they first met, the cohort clicked instantly,” said program director Rick Morse. “In just a week, they created such strong bonds. That’s one of the truly unique things about this program, which goes beyond the curriculum and provides a huge benefit to those who participate. They get out of it so much more than just the classes.”
This fall, the bonds formed by the first cohort proved especially powerful when Hurricane Helene swept through western North Carolina during their second week of training.
“I was tasked by our group to find a way to connect with our three Fellows who were absent from week two due to the hurricane,” said Kelly Dorman, Child Welfare Training Officer for Carteret County. “Communication had been hit or miss up to that point, and I worked to set up a Zoom meeting.”
One of the Fellows affected by the Hurricane was Rebecca Smith, Social Work Director for Buncombe County. “When we connected, Rebecca was extremely vulnerable about what they were navigating,” said Dorman. “Working within social services myself, I felt such a kinship with Rebecca and her team. I know how, at times of crisis, our day-to-day job requirements remain the same with additional responsibilities assigned, and I know it takes sacrifices to meet the needs of our communities during these times.”
“On the call, everyone immediately asked how they could help,” said Smith. “And I suggested helping thank the staff for showing up and continuing to do the work when they are victims of the storm as well.”
Dorman rallied her fellow cohort members to create packages for Smith and her team of social workers in Buncombe County. The packages included snacks, comfort items, handwritten notes with words of encouragement, and flyers with self-care strategies. “The other Fellows really showed up,” said Dorman. “I created an Amazon wish list, and they shopped from it, and shipped it to me. My team members at the agency also supported and helped me pack them.” Altogether, Dorman and the Fellows made over 150 care packages, which Dorman hand-delivered to Smith and her staff.
“It was wonderful to be able to offer snacks and a sense of appreciation for the social work staff while they were working,” said Smith. “During a crisis like this, being able to take care of the people who were showing up to take care of others was really important. I probably could have found other ways to provide support but not having to think about this lift when there were so many other things to worry about, there are no words for how meaningful that was. The Fellows took care of us when we needed it the most.”
Despite missing the second week of the program this year, Smith says she got a lot out of it and is planning to attend week two of next year’s program. “The coaching part of the program was really important to me,” said Smith. “One of the things we talked about just before the storm hit was the importance of sharing affirmations with your team to give them the confidence to do the work independently or to feel like they don’t need you as much as a leader. After the storm hit, I was stuck for over a week with little access to electricity or cell service. Each time I checked in, I was able to put the feedback I received from my leadership assessment and during my coaching session to good use. I worked to lift them up so they would have the confidence to lead in my absence.”
“I really appreciated the opportunity to interact with other people who are in leadership positions in county and city government because I think it is a unique field,” said Smith. “It was nice to join a peer group, see what they’re going through, and realize there are similar struggles.”
Dorman had her own words to share about her Fellows experience:
“Having been part of the Fellows program, I now know that there are 23 other people out there from my cohort who I can reach out to about anything and who will respond and help,” said Dorman. “I genuinely care about each of them and their success. The program has given me the courage and ability to lean into leading. I think daily about how I am showing up and if it continues to align with my values and vision. I simply would not be on the trajectory I am on had I not attended Fellows.”
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The program is currently accepting applications to join in 2025. To learn more and to apply for the program, visit https://cplg.sog.unc.edu/civic-fellows/.
Published March 27, 2025.