CALI is designed to provide community-centered education and skill-building opportunities for individuals and organizations across Savannah. Sessions will focus on equipping Savannahians with the knowledge and resources needed to succeed and contribute to their community. The initiative aims to foster a thriving and empowered city by helping adults, youth, grassroots organizations, and nonprofit agencies achieve self-sufficiency and sustainable growth.

The April 1 open house will offer attendees the opportunity to explore CALI’s upcoming semester sessions, register, and connect with the Community Advancement Division team.

Throughout the year, CALI will offer training sessions under four key focus areas: Community and Neighborhood Leadership Development; Nonprofit and Organizational Leadership Development; Career and Personal Leadership Development; and Youth Leadership Development.

Community leadership sessions are designed to equip individuals, community leaders, and residents with skills needed for sustainable community development. Nonprofit development sessions provide skills to strengthen and grow nonprofit organizations including strategies for effective leadership, strategic planning, capacity building, and fundraising.

Career and personal development sessions will enhance participant’s knowledge and confidence in navigating their career path, covering various aspects of personal and professional growth. Youth leadership sessions will empower young individuals with skills and knowledge to become effective leaders, focusing on several key leadership qualities.

Semester I of CALI will run from April to August, with registration opening on April 1. Semester II will run from September to December, with registration opening on August 1. Most CALI sessions will be led by City of Savannah staff members who are subject-matter experts in their respective fields and professional trainers.

A list of Semester I sessions and registration information is available at //savannahga.gov/cali or by calling 912-651-6520.

Community Advancement Leadership Institute (CALI) major events:

What: CALI Open House, Session One

When: Tuesday, April 1, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: Coastal Georgia Center, 305 Faham St.

What: CALI Open House, Session Two

When: Tuesday, April 1, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Where: Coastal Georgia Center, 305 Faham St.

What: CALI Super Saturday

When: Saturday, April 12, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

Where: Pennsylvania Avenue Resource Center (PARC), 425 Pennsylvania Ave. 

What: CALI Super Saturday

When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.  

Where: Civic Center, 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave.  

What: CALI Neighborhood Convention 

When: Tuesday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: Civic Center, 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave.