STRENGTHEN
YOUR
LEADERSHIP
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK
CONTENTS
CONTENTS ......................................................................................... I
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................ 2
OVERVIEW ........................................................................................ 3
CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP® COMPETENCY MODEL ....................... 4
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS……………………………. 8
BRIDGE PROGRAM .......................................................................... 14
CERTIFICATION TESTS & ASSESSMENTS ........................................ 20
RECERTIFICATION .......................................................................... 21
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION .......................................................... 28
APPENDIX A: ESTIMATED COSTS .................................................... 29
APPENDIX B: ONLINE DEGREE COLLABORATIONS .......................... 32
Vice President of Training and Leadership Development: Terri Radcliff
Senior Director of Organizational Change Management: Kathy Kuras
Director of Career Development: Suzanne Mackey
Designers: Francine Ziev
Copyright ©2010, YMCA of the USA. All rights reserved.
With the pace of change facing our communities and the dramatic strategic and
operational challenges we will face in the future, the Y profession demands
highly trained staff to lead the Y of the future. A robust philosophy of leadership
development based on competencies and proficiencies is essential to attract
and train the best and the brightest new professionals in the movement and
also to maintain our current leaders on the cutting edge of leadership and
management practices.
Gordon Echtenkamp, President and CEO,
YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas
INTRODUCTION
The Y’s cause is to strengthen community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to
make sure everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and
thrive.
To fulfill this promise, Ys require strong cause-driven leadership to affect lasting personal and social
change in our organization’s three areas of focus: youth development, healthy living and social
responsibility. This means leaders are strong in nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy
living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. We must prepare the next generation of Y leaders
by encouraging and rewarding a commitment to professional development and lifelong learning. The
Y’s CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model and Leadership Certification provide our staff with
a strategic and intentional approach to do just that—they are designed to help individuals build the
skills, abilities and knowledge needed to succeed and shine in our organization.
The Leadership Certification is a credentialing process specific to the Y. Based on the Competency
Model; the process includes three certifications that correspond to the progressive levels of leadership
responsibility defined by the competency model. Each certification has distinct requirements, which
may include formal training courses, electives, prerequisites and a certification test.
Obtaining your Leadership Certification reflects your personal and professional achievements and
enriches self-esteem. It increases your confidence because you have validated that you know and can
apply core leadership competencies. Obtaining Leadership Certification also demonstrates that you are
committed to your development at the Y, and can set you apart from your peers when applying for
new professional opportunities.
Thank you for taking the time to understand the Leadership Certification process and for your
dedication to your own learning and professional advancement. Your passion and leadership will help
ensure that the Y preserves our position as a world-class human development organization that
strengthens the foundations of communities.
Terri Radcliff
Vice President
Training and Leadership Development
YMCA of the USA
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 2
OVERVIEW
To support leadership development, the Leadership Certification went into effect January 2010 and
replaced the Director Certification (Director, Professional Director and Senior Director). This handbook
provides information on the major components of the Leadership Certification and is organized by the
following sections:
1. CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model
The Leadership Certification is based on the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model. This
section provides a snapshot of the key components of the Competency Model. A variety of
resources that provide detailed information on the Competency Model are located in the Training &
Leadership Development section on Exchange.
2. Leadership Certification Requirements
This section provides a detailed description of the requirements for each of the Leadership
Certifications including courses, testing and recertification requirements.
3. Bridge Program
The Bridge Program is designed to acclimate new Y professionals who began their careers in the Y
as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders and Organizational Leaders. The Bridge Program is designed to
prepare them for cause-driven leadership through training, experience, and a network of support.
Additionally, the program provides an alternative certification pathway for those who start their Y
careers as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders, Organizational Leaders and CEOs. This section provides
the entry requirements and the certification requirements for the Bridge Program.
4. Certification Tests & Assessment
A test or assessment is required to complete each certification.
5. Recertification
Recertification is required to maintain the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the
Organizational Leader Certification. The Recertification requirement applies to those who obtain
the new Leadership Certification and those who previously earned the Professional Director and
Senior Director Certifications. This section describes the requirements for recertification.
In addition, appendices outlining the estimated costs of the Leadership Certification and information
on online degree collaborations are included at the end of the handbook.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 3
CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP®
COMPETENCY MODEL
The Leadership Certification is based on the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model. The
Competency Model is the foundation for designing all leadership development strategies
and tactics.
The Competency Model is:
•
Comprised of 18 Competencies
•
Organized by the four disciplines
of Cause-driven Leadership:
– Mission Advancement
– Collaboration
– Operational Effectiveness
– Personal Growth
•
Organized into four levels of
leadership:
– Leader
– Team Leader
– Multi-Team or
Branch Leader
– Organizational Leader
The following pages provide a brief overview of the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model
and details on the four levels of leadership. The complete Competency Model as well as multiple
resources including an Assessment, Development Guide, Development Plan, and Interview Guide
among other resources may be found in the Training and Leadership Development section of
Exchange.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 4
LEADERSHIP LEVELS AND LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION
The four leadership levels within the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model represent the
progressive leadership responsibilities across all staff positions. The Leadership Certification aligns
with these levels, and is achieved when staff complete the certification requirements. Staff should
focus on achieving the certification level that aligns with their current leadership level. For staff that
have achieved that certification level, and are successful in their current role, and anticipate
continuing to grow their career at the Y in the near future, it may be appropriate to begin pursuing the
next certification level.
Consider this example:
As a program director, Joel’s job falls into the Team Leader level. Joel has been a program director for
four years and has achieved the Team Leader Certification by fulfilling the requirements. Joel aspires
to be an associate branch executive and will begin working to achieve the Multi-Team or Branch
Leader Certification during the next year. During this time, Joel may or may not advance into a MultiTeam or Branch Leader role, but he is preparing himself to meet his career goals by working toward
the certification now. This will give him the enhanced skills, abilities, and knowledge he needs to be
successful when opportunities arise.
70/20/10 LEARNING MODEL
The central theme behind developing Competencies focuses on identifying areas for change and
creating opportunities to practice new skills. Foundational to this process is the 70/20/10 Learning
Model.
Seventy percent of learning and development takes place
from real-life, challenging on-the-job experiences, tasks
and problem solving.
Twenty percent of learning and development comes from
coaching, feedback, and observing and working with role
models.
Ten percent of learning and development comes from
formal training.
The 70/20/10 Leaning Model is embedded into the course work and
recertification process of the Leadership Certification.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 5
LEADERSHIP LEVELS WITHIN THE CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP
COMPETENCY MODEL
To more fully understand the levels of leadership in the Competency Model, refer
to the chart below. Job titles vary from Y to Y, and similar titles may have very different
responsibilities among Ys across the country. Therefore, the table below is a place to start
in determining which level is the most relevant for you and your position. When reading the
descriptions, think about which best describes your responsibilities on a day-to-day basis.
LEADER LEVEL
DESCRIPTION
POTENTIAL POSITION TITLES
LEADER
Any staff member without
supervisory responsibilities
performing a direct service to
members; an individual contributor.
membership service staff; program staff, including
child care center and site staff, lifeguard, swim
instructor, day camp counselor, fitness instructor, child
watch staff, and teen staff; weight room attendant;
facility or maintenance staff; administrative assistant;
association staff in payroll, accounting, human
resources and marketing; any volunteer program staff
TEAM LEADER
Any staff member performing
supervisory duties with direct
reports.
child care site supervisors; day camp directors; fitness
coordinators; aquatics directors; health and wellness
directors; front desk supervisors; lifeguard shift
managers; facility staff supervising hourly staff;
program coordinators of single departments;
community development directors; human resources
managers; financial development managers; grant
writers; accountants; association department leaders
who directly supervise others or who regularly lead a
team made up of staff from across the association
without direct supervisory responsibility; association
cabinet team leaders serving cross-functional teams
from across the association; program volunteers
supervising or leading other volunteers.
Any staff member who regularly
leads a team of staff or volunteers
without direct supervisory
responsibility.
Any staff member, with or without
staff supervisory responsibility, who
regularly leads a process, project or
function with significant scope and
potential impact.
MULTI-TEAM or
BRANCH LEADER
Any staff member managing multiple branch executive directors; branch associate
team leaders/supervisors
executives; branch operations directors; specialists or
representing multiple departments.
departmental directors at the association level
providing consultation or guidance to a specific
Any staff member who regularly
program area or service
leads multiple teams of staff or
volunteers without direct supervisory (example: marketing director, communications
director, program development director, product line
responsibility.
manager, association teen specialist, relationship
Any staff member who provides
manager for Activate America, etc.);
tactical and operational leadership to program/membership coordinator; director; and senior
multiple departments within a Y
program director (with multiple department or team
branch or association corporate
responsibilities).
office.
Any staff member, with or without
Note: This level has been identified as critical for
staff supervisory responsibilities, who branch executive directors.
regularly leads multiple processes,
projects or functions with significant
scope and potential impact.
ORGANIZATIONAL
LEADER
Staff members who provide strategic
and visionary leadership to the
organization.
C-Level positions (i.e. chief executive officers, chief
operating officers, chief financial officers, chief
development officers); senior vice presidents; vice
presidents of operations and/or association
departments; and some specialists to support specific
strategies.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFCATION HANDBOOK | page 7
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION
REQUIREMENTS
The Leadership Certification is based on the progressive levels of leadership responsibility outlined in
the Y’s CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model. The table below shows how the Leadership
Competency Model and the Leadership Certification are aligned.
•
There are four leadership levels in the CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP Competency Model (top row)
•
Leadership Certifications are offered in three of the four leadership levels (bottom row)
LEADERSHIP LEVELS AND LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION
LEADERSHIP LEVELS
Leader
Team Leader
LEADERSHIP
CERTIFICATION
None – Program and Team Leader
Membership trainings Certification
are offered to
support development
at this level
Multi-Team or
Branch Leader
Organizational
Leader
Multi-Team or
Branch Leader
Certification
Organizational
Leader Certification
Each leadership certification is designed for the corresponding level of leadership. The Team Leader
Certification is designed for those in Team Leader positions, the Multi-Team or Branch Leader
Certification is designed for those in Multi-Team or Branch Leader Level positions, and the
Organizational Leader Certification is designed for those in the Organizational Leader positions. It is
recommended that staff begin a Leadership Certification as they transition or are about to transition
into the corresponding leadership level position. For example, the Organizational Leader Certification
is designed for those who are in Organizational Leader roles or are about to be in Organizational
Leader positions.
The Certification levels must be completed in order and it is recommended that you take the courses
within each certification level before taking courses in the next level. For instance,
the Team Leader Certification must be obtained before you are certified in the Multi-Team or Branch
Leader Certification, which must be obtained before you are certified in the Organizational Leader
Certification.
However, if an individual course is critical to your current work, you may decide to take an individual
course from another certification level before completing the certification you are working on – you
can apply credits when you begin working towards the applicable certification. For example, you may
be ready to begin the Team Leader Certification and decide to first take the Project Management
course (from the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification) because the project management skills
are critical to your current work. Keep in mind, individual courses may also have prerequisites which
are identified in the course descriptions in Learning & Career Development Center found on Exchange.
The following pages outline the requirements for each of the certifications. All three certifications
require a test or assessment to complete the certification and the Multi-Team or Branch Leader and
Organizational Leader Certifications require recertification every 5 years to maintain the certifications.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 8
TEAM LEADER CERTIFICATION
The Team Leader Certification is designed to help prepare staff members as they transition into
team leader responsibilities.
The primary focus of the Team Leader Certification is to inspire and motivate staff toward a career in
the Y; provide knowledge of Y history and mission imperatives; and provide foundational knowledge of
the leadership competencies.
TEAM LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE REQURIMENTS
•
Principles and Practices (3 days)
•
Introduction to Volunteerism (1 day)
•
Introduction to Leading Others (2 days)
•
Introduction to Fiscal Management (2 days)
•
Online Leadership Competency Assessment
•
Team Leader Certification Test
Recertification: There is no recertification requirement for the Team Leader Certification.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 9
MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER CERTIFICATION
The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification is designed to prepare staff as they transition or as
they are about to transition into Multi-Team or branch leadership roles and offers 3 Tracks to choose
from:
•
General Track provides foundational knowledge of select leadership competencies at the MultiTeam or Branch Leader level.
•
Executive Preparatory Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at the
Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who aspire to become Executive Directors or
similar positions and who are selected through an application process.
•
New Branch Executive Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at the
Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who are in their first 1-2 years as a Branch
Executive Director (or equivalent positions such as Center Directors and Branch Directors) in a
multi-unit YMCA.
MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL
TRACK COURSES
OR
EXECUTIVE PREPARATORY
TRACK COURSES
OR
NEW BRANCH EXECUTIVE
TRACK COURSES
Team Leader Certification –
Prerequisite
Team Leader Certification –
Prerequisite
Team Leader Certification –
Prerequisite
Leading & Coaching Others
(2 days)
Executive Preparatory Institute
(Five month program including
one 4 day session with
assignments & web-based
learning)
New Branch Executive Institute
(8 month program including two 4
day sessions with assignments &
web-based learning)
Annual Community Support
Campaign (3 days)
Annual Community Support
Campaign (3 days)
Executive Fundraising
(3 days)
Advanced Fiscal Management
(2 days)
Advanced Fiscal Management
(2 days)
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test
Project Management (1 day)
16 Elective Credits*
32 Elective credits *
Multi-Team or Branch Leader
Test
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test
* See an updated list of eligible elective courses in the Learning and Career Development Center on Exchange:
(https://lcdc.yexchange.org) under My Learning > Certification Status > View Progress
Recertification: The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification must be recertified every
5 years through completing 20 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) and completing the online
Leadership Competency Assessment (available via Exchange). You may also begin pursuing the
Organizational Leader Certification.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 10
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER CERTIFICATION
The Organizational Leader Certification is designed to prepare staff as they transition or
as they are about to transition into organizational leadership roles and offers 2 Tracks to
choose from:
•
General Track provides foundational knowledge of select leadership competencies at the
Organizational Leader level.
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL
TRACK COURSES
OR
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP FORUM
TRACK COURSES
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification –
Prerequisite
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification –
Prerequisite
Leading Change
(3 days)
Organizational Leadership Forum
(4 month cohort program in collaboration with
University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza School of
Business)
32 Elective Credits*
Organizational Leader Capstone
Organizational Leader Capstone
* See an updated list of eligible elective courses in the Learning and Career Development Center
(https://lcdc.yexchange.org ) under My Learning > Certification Status > View Progress
Recertification: The Organizational Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years
through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) and completing the Online
Leadership Competency Assessment (https://lcdc.yexchange.org/MyLearning/Tests)
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 11
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION
Tracking Your Progress
You can easily track your progress towards certification in the Learning and Career Development
Center, your personalized Progress Report will show you what classes you have completed and what
classes you still need to take in order to earn the certification.
To view your progress, log in to LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org) and follow the instructions below:
1. Navigate to My Learning
2. Click on Certification Status
3. Select View Progress
4. Select Leadership Progress
5. Select Certification Name
6. Select Certification Track
Taking the Test or Assessment
All Certifications require a Test or Assessment to earn the certification. When you have completed the
required courses you can then go and access the test. To access the test, log in to LCDC
(https://lcdc.yexchange.org) and follow the instructions below:
1. Navigate to My Learning
2. Click on Test or Assessments
3. Expand the Leadership section by clicking on the gray arrow
4. Select the Test or Assessment that pertains to you (Team Leader Certification Test, MultiTeam or Branch Leader Test or Organizational Leader Capstone)
5. If you DO meet the requirements the system will direct you to a link that goes to the test
or allows you to schedule your test or assessment
6. If you DO Not meet the requirements the system will inform you of what course you are
missing and must take before you can access the test
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 12
Submitting your Application To Complete a Certification
All of the Leadership Certifications require an application to complete. When you have met all the
requirements the system will display a link to apply for certification. To get to this information follow
the steps below:
To apply to complete a certification, log in to LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org) follow the instructions
below:
Navigate to My Learning or My Records
My Learning Pathway
My Records Pathway
Navigate to My Learning
Navigate to My Records
Click on Certification Status
Select Online Applications and
Uploads
Select View Progress
Select Apply to Complete Certification
Select Leadership Progress
Select Certification Name
View your Progress, if you have completed the required courses you will have a red link
that states you can apply for the certification, click on the link.
You will be asked to provide a Supervisor’s Name and email address, review all of your
information and then click submit.
Please note the system will ask if you want to submit a resume or degree, this is NOT REQUIRED for
Team Leader or Multi-Team or Branch Leader but it is REQUIRED for Organizational Leader
Certification.
The system will send you an email letting you know your application has been received, for
Team Leader and Multi-Team the certification will automatically appear on your transcript.
Organizational Leader Certification must be approved by Y-USA.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 13
BRIDGE PROGRAM
Realizing that professionals enter the movement from diverse backgrounds and with significant
leadership experience, it’s important to offer an accelerated pathway to obtaining Leadership
Certification. The Bridge Program is designed to meet the needs for new Y professionals who begin
careers in the Y as Multi-Team or Branch Leaders and Organizational Leaders. The Bridge Program
prepares them for cause-driven leadership through training, experiences, and a network of support.
The Bridge Program will provide:
•
Support and access to a network of colleagues and peers.
•
Foundational knowledge about the Y and its mission and values.
•
Access to Y resources, tools and best practices.
•
Guidance on how to leverage previous experience to the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required
for success in a cause-focused organization.
•
An alternative pathway to Leadership Certification.
There are three Bridge Programs for those who started their Y career as Multi-Team or
Branch Leaders, Organizational Leaders, and CEOs:
•
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program – to complete the Multi-Team or
Branch Leader Certification
•
Organizational Leader Bridge Program – to complete the Organizational
Leader Certification
•
CEO Bridge Program – to complete the Organizational Leader Certification
All of the Bridge Programs require an application process. The Bridge Program Application may be
found in the Learning & Career Development Center, (https://lcdc.yexchange.org ) under My Records
> Online Application & Uploads > Apply to Begin Certification.
The following pages outline the qualifications and requirements for the three Bridge Programs.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 14
BRIDGE PROGRAM
Applying to Begin Certification
Submit Your Application
To apply for your certification, log in to LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org) and follow the instructions
below:
1. Navigate to My Records
2. Select Online Applications and Uploads
3. Select Apply to Begin Certification
4. Select the Certification and Certification Track
5. Review the My Information section and update where necessary
6. Review Supervisor Information section and update where necessary
7. Complete the Education Section (you must upload your current resume and proof of your
Bachelor’s Degree – diploma or transcript)
8. Complete the My Career Section
9. Click Submit
Please note: you can see the status of your application by viewing the Submitted Applications,
Licenses, & Uploads.
Tracking Your Progress
You can easily track your progress towards certification in the Learning and Career Development
Center, your personalized Progress Report will show you what classes you have completed and what
classes you still need to take in order to earn the certification.
To view your progress, log in to LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org) and follow the instructions below:
1. Navigate to My Learning
2. Click on Certification Status
3. Select View Progress
4. Select Leadership Progress
5. Select Certification Name
6. Select Certification Track
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 15
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program
The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program offers staff 3 Tracks to choose from:
•
Bridge - General Track provides foundational knowledge of select leadership competencies at
the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level.
•
Bridge - Executive Preparatory Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at
the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who aspire to become Executive Directors
or similar positions and who are selected through an application process.
•
Bridge - New Branch Executive Track provides knowledge of select leadership competencies at
the Multi-Team or Branch Leader level specific to those who are in their first 1-2 years as a Branch
Executive Director (or equivalent positions such as Center Directors and Branch Directors) in a
multi-unit YMCA.
Criteria for Entering the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program
Begun your Y career as a Multi-Team or Branch Leader
5 or more years of leadership and management experience
The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the
program. Y-USA will provide support and guidance to ensure that you complete all requirements while
in the Bridge Program.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 16
MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Participants of the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Bridge Program are encouraged to complete Principles
and Practices first before completing the other requirements. The Bridge Program must be completed
within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the Bridge Program from Y-USA.
MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM COURSE REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL
TRACK COURSES
EXECUTIVE
OR PREPARATORY
TRACK COURSES
NEW BRANCH EXECUTIVE
OR TRACK COURSES
Principles and Practices
(3 days)
Principles and Practices
(3 days)
Principles and Practices
(3 days)
Leading & Coaching Others
(2 days)
Executive Preparatory Institute
(Five month program including
one 4 day session with
assignments & web-based
learning)
New Branch Executive Institute
(8 month program including two
4 day sessions with assignments &
web-based learning)
Annual Community Support
Campaign (3 days)
Annual Community Support
Campaign (3 days)
YMCA Executive Fundraising
(3 days)
Introduction to Fiscal
Management (2 Days)
Introduction to Fiscal
Management (2 Days)
Online Leadership Competency
Assessment
Advanced Fiscal Management
(2 days)
Advanced Fiscal Management
(2 days)
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test
Introduction to Volunteerism (1
day)
Online Leadership Competency
Assessment
Project Management (1 day)
Multi-Team or Branch Leader
Test
Online Leadership Competency
Assessment
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Test
Recertification: The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification must be recertified every
5 years through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) and completing the
Online Leadership Competency Assessment. You may also begin pursuing the Organizational Leader
Certification.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 17
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM
To complete the Organizational Leader Certification
This program is designed for those who begin their Y career as Organizational Leaders. Positions that
qualify for this program include: C-Level positions (i.e., Chief Operating Officers, Chief Financial
Officers, Chief Development Officers); Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents of operations and/or
association departments; and some specialists to support specific strategies. Note: There is another
program created specifically for CEOs with details found on page 19.
Criteria for Entering the Organizational Leader Bridge Program
The Organizational Leader Bridge Program has two tracks: General and CEO
Begun your Y career as an Organizational Leader or CEO
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university is required
8 or more years of leadership and management experience
The Bridge Program must be completed within 3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the
program from Y-USA. Y-USA will provide support and guidance to ensure that you complete all
requirements while in the Bridge Program.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 18
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Participants of the Organizational Leader Bridge Program are encouraged to follow the recommended
sequence and time frame for completing requirements. The Bridge Program must be completed within
3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the Bridge Program from Y-USA.
REQUIRED COURSES
Online Leadership Competency Assessment
Bridge Principles and Practices
Conduct Peer Visit or Observation
16 Elective Credits from a predefined list of eligible courses*
Leading Change
Organizational Leader Capstone (this is the final requirement and can only be completed after
all the other courses have been completed)
* See an updated list of eligible elective courses in the Learning and Career Development Center
(https://lcdc.yexchange.org ) under My Learning > Certification Status > View Progress
Recertification: The Organizational Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years
through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) and completing the Online Leadership
Competency Assessment.
CEO BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Participants of the Organizational Leader Bridge program are encouraged to follow the recommended
sequence and time frame for completing requirements. The Bridge Program must be completed within
3 years of receiving confirmation of acceptance into the Bridge Program from Y-USA.
CEO BRIDGE PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED COURSES
Online Leadership Competency Assessment
New CEO Institute (includes Governance course)
Bridge Principles and Practices
Conduct Peer Visit or Observation
Board Leadership
Leading Change
Organizational Leader Capstone (this is the final requirement and can only be completed after all
the other courses have been completed)
Recertification: The Organizational Leader Certification must be recertified every 5 years
through completing 160 Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) and completing the online Leadership
Competency Assessment.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 19
CERTIFICATION TESTS &
ASSESSMENTS
CREATING TESTS & ASSESSMENTS
Working collaboratively with outside experts, the Y follows certification-industry best practices to
create and update our Certification Tests and Assessments. The test is carefully developed and
maintained by Y-USA. The Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Test and the Team Leader
Certification Test contains multiple-choice questions designed to test the leadership
competencies needed for success at the appropriate leadership level. Test questions are written
by item writers who have been selected to reflect racial, ethnic, gender, and geographic
diversity. A Test Committee, composed of content experts balanced for diversity, reviews and
selects questions to be placed on the Team Leader Test. Y-USA also works to ensure that the
test is a fair measure of competency regardless of the race or gender of the test-taker. As part of
this effort, every test item undergoes a statistical and sensitivity analysis; if such analysis
demonstrates any race or gender bias, the item is deleted.
AVAILABLE TESTS
Team Leader Certification Test
Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification Test
Organizational Leader Capstone
These can be found in the Learning & Career Development Center on Exchange:
(https://lcdc.yexchange.org) under My Learning > Tests & Assessments
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 20
RECERTIFICATION
CONTINUAL DEVELOPMENT
Continual development of the Leadership Competencies will help to build the leadership needed to
meet the ever-changing needs of the communities we serve. Leadership development is a career-long
process, and recertification requirements support and enable this process by providing a way to
capture the time spent engaging in lifelong learning. The recertification process encourages and
rewards lifelong learning with an emphasis on developing both yourself and others.
Staff who are content with their current job and do not have plans to seek out additional or new
responsibilities still have the opportunity – and the obligation – to continually strive to enhance their
skills and competencies.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
•
Recertification is required to maintain the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the
Organizational Leader Certification.
•
One hundred and sixty (160) Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) every 5 years and
completion of the Online Leadership Competency Assessment are required for
recertification. Forty (40) of the One hundred and sixty (160) must be earned by attending Y-USA
courses, events, workshops or leadership roles.
Please note: you may earn more than 160 LCC’s in a Recertification Cycle. Credit earned
above the 160 required LCC’s for certification may not be carried over to the next
Recertification Cycle.
•
The Recertification requirement also applies to those who earned the Professional Director and
Senior Director Certifications and whose certifications have been converted to the Multi-Team
or Branch Leader Certification and the Organizational Leader Certification.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 21
TRACKING YOUR PROGRESS TOWARDS RECERTIFICATION
The Learning and Career Development Center will provide you with Recertification Summary Report.
This report will allow you to track your progress toward recertification.
Below is an outline of the report you will see in LCDC providing summary information regarding your
recertification progress and the activity detail for all activities completed during the recertification
period. Please note that any credits earned beyond the total number of credits needed for the current
recertification period WILL NOT carry over to your next recertification period.
Example of Recertification Summary Report from LCDC
Achievement Info
Current Certification Level Achieved: Organizational Leader Certification
Date Achieved: 12/22/2009
Expiration Date: 12/31/2015
Recertification Summary
Your recertification period begins on 12/23/2009. You must complete all recertification
requirements by 12/31/2015.
Have requirements been met?
Yes
Date Eligible to Begin Earning Credit:
12/23/2009
Recertification Expiration Date:
12/31/2015
Total Credits Required for Recertification:
160
Total Credits Earned for Recertification (to date):
212.25 of 160
Total Y-USA Sponsored Credits Earned for Recertification (to date):124 of 40
Recertification Credit Summary
For your current certification, you may earn recertification credits in multiple categories. The
information below provides an overview of the total credits you have earned to date for each of the
available categories. 40 of the 160 total credits required for recertification must be Y-USA Sponsored
Credits (i.e. earned through completing Y-USA Sanctioned Courses or Activities).
To view your progress, log in to LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org) and follow the instructions below:
1. Navigate to My Learning
2. Click on Certification Status
3. Select View Renewal/Recertification
4. Select Leadership Progress
5. Select Certification Name
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 22
SELECTING ACTIVITIES FOR RECERTIFICATION
Since the central focus of recertification is on developing the Leadership Competencies, you’ll want to
focus on activities which develop the Leadership Competencies you’ve identified. The Online
Leadership Competency Assessment provides the opportunity to rate your skill in each of the 18
Leadership Competencies and provide you with results. The Assessment Results will provide a
foundation for selecting Leadership Competencies to develop, creating a Development Plan and
selecting activities for recertification. For information on accessing the Leadership Competency
Assessment and Development Guide, see the “Additional Information” section of the Handbook.
RECERTIFICATION CATEGORIES
The Leadership Competency Credits (LCC’s) can be earned in a variety of ways including
attending courses, teaching and presenting, and on-the-job experiences. There are five categories
which contain a variety of activities to earn LCC’s for Recertification.
I.
Continuing Education
II.
Instruction
III. Leadership Role
IV.
Research and Publishing
V.
Project
The first category, Continuing Education, is based on formal training or education, whereas the other
four categories are earned through experience. In addition, the process recognizes the importance of
“giving back” to others and contributing one’s knowledge and experience to the larger YMCA
movement through the categories of Instruction, Leadership Role, and Research and Publishing.
One hundred and sixty (160) Leadership Competency Credits are required every 5 years to maintain
the Multi-Team or Branch Leader Certification and the Organizational Leader Certification.
You can earn the entire 160 credits in the Continuing Education category. However, there are a
maximum number of credits that may be accumulated in the other categories.
Recertification: Category Descriptions
The following pages provide a description of the activities for each category of Recertification and the
maximum credits that may be accumulated in each category over the 5-year Recertification Cycle. In
addition to the category requirements:
•
A minimum of 40 credits must be earned through activities listed on the Y-USA
Sponsored Activities for Recertification document (found on Exchange,
https://yexchange.org ). Y-USA sponsored activities are assigned a number of credits or in
the case of most conferences, are listed as part of conference materials.
•
The remaining credits may be earned through activities with your local YMCA, other local or
national organizations, and educational institutions.
I. Continuing Education (40 credits minimum / 160 credits maximum per Recertification
Cycle)
Continuing Education includes completing formal training, courses, institutes; masters and doctorate
degrees; participating in conference workshops or seminars; participating in AYP Learning Circles;
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 23
and participating in local leadership development programs. To qualify, the instruction content must
focus on at least one of the Leadership Competencies.
Calculating credit for Continuing Education:
Courses
•
All Leadership Competency Courses will have a credit allocation that can be found in the
course description in LCDC at (https://lcdc.yexchange.org). If you search for the Certification in
the LCDC you will be able to see all the Y-USA Sponsored Activities. Any course completed
through Y-USA should appear on your Y Training Transcript, if it does not appear please
contact the Y-USA Contact Center, 1-800-872-9622.
•
If you attend a course inside the Y the credit conversion is as follows:
–
–
–
–
½ day (3-4 hours) = 4 credits
1 day (5-8 hours) = 8 credits
1.5 days (9-12 hours) = 12 credits
2 days (16 hours) or more = 16 credits
Conferences/Workshops/Seminars
•
There is a 16 credit maximum for qualifying workshops at conferences and meetings. The number
of credits applies to the length of the workshop portion of the conference or meeting which
focuses on at least one of the 18 Leadership Competencies (not the length of the entire
conference).
o
o
o
o
½ day (3-4 hours) = 4 credit
1 day (5-8 hours) = 8 credit
1.5 days (9-12 hours) = 12 credits
2 days (16 hours) or more = 16 credits
Non-Degree, Certification Courses and Institutes
•
Courses, Certifications or Institutes obtained at a university or other educational institution as a
non-degree student will count for the number of credits offered by the educational institution.
Graduate or Doctorate Degrees
•
Completion of a master’s or doctorate degree will result in 160 Leadership Competency Credits.
Please submit for credits once you have completed the program, proof of completion will be
required.
•
If you are requesting 160 credits for the completion of a master’s or doctorate degree the
40 credits required from the Y-USA sponsored activity list will be waived.
II. Instruction (40 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle)
You will earn 8 credits for teaching a course, the first time you teach it, in a 12-month period. You will
earn 8 credits for conducting a formal presentation at a workshop seminar or session at a conference.
You will earn 8 credits regardless of the length of the presentation. To qualify, the instruction content
must focus on at least one of the 18 Leadership Competencies.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 24
III. Leadership Role (40 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle)
Credit can be earned through serving in a leadership role outside of your YMCA position responsibilities
including serving on a committee or board and serving as a mentor or coach as part of a formal
program. You will earn 8 credits for 12 months of service on a committee, board or other identified
group. You will earn 8 credits for serving as a coach or mentor as part of a formal program. More
credit may be assigned for serving in a leadership role in Y specific programs, for examples see the YUSA Sponsored Activities for Recertification.
IV. Research and Publishing (40 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle – additional
credit given for authoring a book)
Credit can be earned by conducting research or writing on a leadership development related topic and
publishing the content in a national Y publication or another national journal or publication. Articles
published in a Y publication or national journal or publication and solely written by you will earn 16
credits. Articles co-authored by you will earn 8 credits. Chapters published in a book or manual and
solely written by you or co-authored by you will earn 32 credits. A nationally published book solely
written by you or co-authored by you will earn 120 credits.
V. Project (64 credits maximum per Recertification Cycle)
Credit can be earned through completing a Project Report describing a project that you have
completed related to your work in the Y. The project must require you to develop leadership
knowledge, skills and behaviors in at least one of the Leadership Competencies and have significant
impact within the YMCA or community. The process for submitting the Project Report will include a
review by your peers or colleagues and your supervisor. It will be reviewed and either 32 or 64 credits
assigned based on the scope of the project and established criteria. A Project Report form is available
on the Learning & Career Development Center and must be completed and approved before credit is
awarded.
What is a Project?
A project is a temporary endeavor, having a defined beginning and end, undertaken to meet
particular goals and objectives. The project will involve planning, organizing, and managing
resources to bring about the successful completion of specific project goals and objectives. For
recertification, a project must involve a focus on developing at least one of the 18 Leadership
Competencies and you must be the project leader. In addition, the project must meet the Project
Guidelines described on the following page.
Project Requirements
A. The project must be related to Y work either within the Y or in the community.
B. The project must require you to develop leadership knowledge and skills in at least one of the
18 Leadership Competencies.
C. The project must have impact within the Y or in the community.
D. You are required to have a coach, development partner, or supervisor who will advise and
support you while completing the project and who will endorse your Project Report.
E. Three people must review and endorse your project – your supervisor, a peer/colleague and
a person who was impacted by the project.
F. You are required to submit a Project Report
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 25
Project Assessment Criteria
Any project submitted for recertification credits must be endorsed by your supervisor, a
colleague/peer and a person impacted by the project. The project will also be reviewed by the
Y-USA and will be awarded either 4 or 8 credits.
The 32 or 64 credits will be awarded based on the contribution of the project to the YMCA,
community and potentially the movement. In general, a rating of a 32 will be applied to those
projects which met the project goals and made a significant contribution to the Y or
community. A rating of 64 will be applied to those projects which exceeded the project
goals, made an exceptional contribution to the Y or community and show promise for a
significant contribution to the movement.
The following areas will most impact the rating:
a. Leadership Competency focus
b. Impact on the Y and/or the community
c.
Involvement of community partners
d. Potential contribution to the movement
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 26
SUBMITTING CREDITS FOR RECERTIFICATION
Submission of Recertification Credits will be done through LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org)
•
Allow the submission of Leadership Competency Credits for Recertification at any time during the
5-year Recertification Cycle
•
Keep track of progress towards the 20 Leadership Competency Credits needed for Recertification
TO BEGIN ENTERING LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY CREDITS FOR
RECERTIFICATION:
To input credits, log in to LCDC (https://lcdc.yexchange.org) and follow the instructions below:
1. Navigate to My Records
2. Click on Online Applications and Uploads.
3. Select Submit Renewal/Recertification Credits
4. Select Certification Category – Leadership Certification
5. Select Certification that activity applies towards
6. Select Renewal/Recertification activity category
7. Select Renewal/Recertification activity subcategory
8. Input responses for information about the activity (will vary depending on category and
subcategory)
9. Click Submit
AUDITING
To maintain the integrity of the recertification process the Y-USA will randomly audit recertification
submissions. It is not necessary to submit supporting documentation when applying for recertification
unless it is specifically stated to do so (for example, with masters or doctorate degrees and with
projects). However, if you are chosen for audit you will be asked to submit supporting documentation.
You should therefore maintain documentation of the activities you submitted for credit until you
receive confirmation of your credits from Y-USA.
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 27
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION
Additional information on the Leadership Certification including Quick Reference Guides, FAQs,
information on specific courses and the process for submitting certification and recertification
requirements may be found in the Training and Leadership Development section on Exchange:
https://yexchange.org.
CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP COMPETENCY MODEL
There are several tools available to assist you in assessing and developing Leadership Competencies.
•
The Online Leadership Competency Assessment is available online through the LCDC which
gives you the opportunity to assess your skill level in each of the 18 Leadership Competencies.
The Leadership Competency Assessment is a requirement for certification and recertification in the
Leadership Certification. Y-USA recommends that you take the Online Leadership Competency
Assessment after being in a position at least 3 months and minimally every 2 years. It is required
every 5 years for Recertification.
•
The YMCA Leadership Competency Development Guide provides you with descriptions of the
leadership competencies, suggested experience-based learning assignments, key coaching
questions, valuable tips, training opportunities, and suggested readings and books.
•
A Development Plan is available as part of the Assessment process to plan activities which will
help you develop selected leadership competencies.
For more information on the Competency Model and Tools, refer to the Training Leadership
Development pages on Exchange: https://yexchange.org
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 28
APPENDIX A: ESTIMATED COSTS
This section describes the estimated number of days and registration costs related to the
required and elective courses included in the Leadership Certification. Making trainings more
accessible and affordable is part of the delivery strategy in the Y-USA’s Training and Leadership
Development System. The new Trainer Partner Y System will bring training closer to Ys through
Regional Training Events. For more information on the Training Partner Y system, see the
Training and Leadership Development section on YMCA Exchange.
The cost estimates provided on the following pages do not include any travel estimates,
however, the majority of the courses will be offered through regional training events so the
travel costs should be minimal. Institutes and Forums (requiring multiple sessions over multiple
months) will be offered within and rotated through the four regions of the country and the costs
will typically include lodging and food.
The approximate costs in each table are based on pricing guidelines used by Training Partner Ys
for Regional Training events and may change from year to year.
TEAM LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE LENGTH AND APPROXIMATE FEES
REQUIRED COURSES:
COURSE LENGTH
APPROXIMATE
COURSE FEE COST:
(DOES NOT INCLUDE
TRAVEL & LODGING UNLESS
INDICATED)
Principles and Practices
3 days
$725
Includes meals and lodging
Introduction to Volunteerism
1 day
$60-100
Introduction to Leading Others
2 days
$120-200
1.5 days
$90-150
Leadership Competency
Assessment
online
$25 for the self-assessment
Team Leader Certification Test
online
$50
7.5 days
Plus the Online Leadership
Competency Assessment and
Certification Test
$1250
Introduction to Fiscal Management
course
TOTAL
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 29
MULTI-TEAM OR BRANCH LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE LENGTH AND APPROXIMATE FEES
REQUIRED COURSES:
COURSE LENGTH
APPROXIMATE COST:
(DOES NOT INCLUDE
TRAVEL & LODGING UNLESS
INDICATED)
Project Management
1 day
$60-100
Annual Community Support
Campaign
3 days
$180-300
Leading & Coaching Others
2 days
$120-200
Advanced Fiscal Management
2 days
$120-200
32 Elective Credits
4 days
$300-500
Multi-Team or Branch Leader
Certification Test
online
$50
Approx. 11 days
Plus the Online Certification
Test
$1350
4 days
(Five month program including one
4 day session with assignments &
web-based learning)
$800-1200
Annual Community Support
Campaign
3 days
$180-300
Advanced Fiscal Management
2 days
$120-200
16 Elective Credits
2 days
$120-200
Multi-Team or Branch Leader
Certification Test
online
$50
11 days
$1950
8 days
(8 month program including two
4 day sessions with assignments &
web-based learning)
$1450-2250
Executive Fundraising
3 days
$375-675
Multi-Team or Branch Leader
Certification Test
online
$50
11 days
$2975
GENERAL TRACK COURSES:
TOTAL
EXECUTIVE PREPARATORY TRACK
COURSES:
Executive Preparatory Institute
TOTAL
NEW BRANCH EXECUTIVE TRACK
COURSES:
New Branch Executive Institute
TOTAL
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 30
ORGANIZATIONAL LEADER CERTIFICATION COURSE LENGTH AND APPROXIMATE FEES
REQUIRED COURSES:
COURSE LENGTH
APPROXIMATE COST:
(DOES NOT INCLUDE
TRAVEL & LODGING UNLESS
INDICATED)
3 days
$400
NAYDO Conference
3 days
$495-795
Executing your Strategic Plan
2 days
$125-275
Board Leadership
2 days
$175-250
Governance
1 day
$150
Fiscal Stewardship
2 days
$375-675
Organizational Leader Capstone
½ day
TBD
6-8 days
Depending on Elective choices
TBD
Organizational Leadership Forum
8 days
(4 month program including two
4 day sessions with assignments &
web-based learning)
$3250-4250
Organizational Leader Capstone
½ day
TBD
8.5 days
$4250
Bridge Principles and Practices
2 days
$975
Includes meals and lodging
New CEO Institute
3 days
$675-1275
GENERAL TRACK 1 COURSES:
Leading Change
And choose two electives from:
TOTAL
TRACK 2 COURSES:
TOTAL
BRIDGE PROGRAM – SEE ABOVE FOR
SPECIFIC COURSES
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 31
APPENDIX B: ONLINE DEGREE
COLLABORATIONS
Opportunities with online degree providers will enable Y staff to pursue and acquire advanced
degrees needed for advancement in the Y. A bachelor’s degree is required to obtain the
Organizational Leader Certification and for staff to qualify for the highest level of leadership in
the Y. Obtaining a degree can sometimes be difficult for staff due to funding, accessibility and
time constraints.
Through these opportunities, Y staff will have another pathway to enhance their Y career
development and life-long learning goals. Some schools are also generously extending their
discount to Y volunteers and also to the immediate families of Y staff or volunteers. Y-USA has
developed collaborations with four online degree providers:
•
Walden University – 15% Tuition discount for all on-line degree programs at the
bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate levels for full time and part time Y staff and Y volunteers,
as well as their immediate family members including spouse, domestic partner, and
dependent children.
•
Capella University – 10% Tuition discount for all on-line degree programs at the bachelor’s,
master’s and doctorate levels for full time and part time Y staff and Y volunteers, as well as
their immediate family members including spouse, domestic partner, and dependent children.
•
Missouri Baptist University – 10% Tuition discount for both the online undergraduate
sport management program and the online graduate sport management program in the
Health and Sport Sciences is available for all full time and part time Y staff and Y volunteers.
•
Concordia University – 10% Tuition discount for Y staff for any online courses in
Concordia’s undergraduate or graduate childcare programs, as well as all of their online
cohort programs
In addition to the online degree partnerships, Springfield College continues their historic
tradition of providing opportunities for professional education and training for Y staff. At 11
campuses, located in Metropolitan areas around the USA, Springfield College School of Human
Services provides bachelors and master’s degree programs and offers a matching scholarship for
Y employees.
Additional information including links to the university collaborations may be found through the
University Collaborations Page in the Training & Leadership Development section of Exchange:
https://yexchange.org
LEADERSHIP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK | page 32