People Transforming Communities Through Community Commitment. A Case Study of Two Mid‐Western Community Leadership Development Programs

Background: Community leadership programs (CLPs) play a crucial role in cultivating local leadership that is instrumental in driving substantial changes within communities. Objective: Using an organizational commitment framework, this study evaluates the impact of two Midwestern CLPs cultivating community commitment and facilitating the application of leadership skills to promote community well‐being. Methods: A qualitative research design was employed, involving in‐depth interviews with program graduates (33), facilitators (4), and community partners (4). The study assessed the nature and effects of affective, normative, and continuance commitment developed through participation in these programs. Findings: Participants demonstrated strong community commitment, characterized by a deep emotional connection to, a felt responsibility for, and a persistent engagement with, their communities. These forms of commitment were critical in enabling participants to apply learned leadership skills effectively to initiate and sustain community improvement projects. Conclusion: CLPs are crucial in enhancing community commitment and leadership capacity, thereby driving transformative community change. The programs not only develop individual leaders but also promote a collective leadership ethos that is essential for addressing community challenges collaboratively. The findings advocate for the broader implementation of CLPs to strengthen community ties and improve collective community health and well‐being.