The North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement will offer a free, seven-week course entitled "Leadership Training for Older Persons." The class will meet on the UNC Asheville Campus on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from September 12-October 24.

During the course, participants will develop practical skills in leading groups, conducting meetings, team building, project planning and public speaking. After completion of the formal classes, participants will have the opportunity to put their skills into practice through community projects. Classes are supportive to all levels of leadership.

"We are witnessing a growing trend as retiring adults in the second half of their lives are taking up new callings as volunteer leaders and community organizers," said Patti Cameron, Leadership Training for Older Adults Coordinator. "This trend is reflected throughout the country as we field calls from non-profits and congregations wanting to replicate the program. There is a need to offer quality hands-on training and support to these budding community leaders, and LTOP is here to meet this need.”

The course is free and open to adults 50 years of age or older, with minorities given preference. The application deadline is Wednesday, Aug. 15. For more information or to register, call the N.C. Center for Creative Retirement at 828/251-6198 or visit www.unca.edu/ncccr and click on the LTOP link.