If you would like to take part in the Regional Leaders Program, there are many avenues for seeking sponsors. A sponsor is a person, group, business, or organization who will pay a portion or entire amount of your program fee. Why? Because they want community members to know they are supporting them. They know that if they invest in leadership, it is good for our community. Follow these guidelines when seeking sponsors:

1. You are certainly more than just an individual seeking training. You represent the future for organizations you work with, for your family and friends, and for your community. Many will benefit from your participation.

2. Support may come from anywhere within the public, private, or independent sectors. The list of possible sources you should consider, include:

3. As with anything, be prepared. Know what you want to say and how you will use the materials in this packet to make your case. One important fact is that you are like the majority of past participants, in that very few have been able to afford to pay the fee. Know the basic facts about the program. Most facts of interest are contained in the news release announcing this year's program (e.g., what the fee pays for).

4. The list of past participants is included in your packet. You should contact the ones living nearest you to get more information. They may also be able to help you find a sponsor(s).

5. ASK IN PERSON, if possible. (Telephone ahead of time to make sure the person will be there to talk with you). You are the point of consideration. Its easier to say "yes" in person, and "no" over the telephone or in a letter.

6. Sponsors should see this as an "investment in the community", and a very positive association with Arkansas State University. Point out the names of past sponsors with whom they might identify.

7. If appropriate, note to your prospect that all sponsors are frequently credited and given special recognition at the annual Regional Leaders Program banquet and graduation ceremony. They are also always welcome to visit any of the sessions. 8. You may want to use the course outline to show how practical and relevant the content of the program is.

9. If the supporter/sponsor(s) wants to make a tax deductible contribution, the donation has to be made without naming who is to be the benefactor. The check should be made out to the ASU Foundation - Regional Leaders Program Scholarship Fund and sent to Arkansas State University, 4110 Lindberg, Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401. All other checks made out on behalf of a named applicant to the RLP, will be recorded and held until the selection decision has been made, at which time they will be processed for credit in a regular RLP account, or returned, depending of course on the selection decision. Such checks should be sent to: Regional Leaders Program, ASU Center for Regional & Community Development, 4110 Lindberg, Jonesboro, AR 72401.

10. Remember, securing a method for paying the fee is your responsibility. Please do not hesitate, however, to call Jerry Smith or Conye Johnson at ASU (870-910-8180) if you need more ideas or additional information, or if your sponsor prospect would like to talk directly with them. Good luck!