We all have a vested interest in Beaufort County. Whether you have lived here for a day or a lifetime, there is a lot to learn about the various facets of our community and the people within the infrastructure.

All residents should be well informed of the inner workings of the county, and the most comprehensive program on Beaufort County is through Leadership Beaufort.

In its fifth year, Leadership Beaufort participants tour the county from top to bottom covering the following:

• City of Washington and Beaufort County governments.
• Law enforcement/public-safety departments such as the Washington Police Department, Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office and Washington Fire-Rescue-EMS.
• Health-care facilities like UHS-Beaufort Hospital and Agape Community Health Clinic.
• Nonprofits such as the Beaufort County Developmental Center, Eagle’s Wings, Zion Shelter and Kitchen, The Salvation Army and American Red Cross.
• Cultural programs such as the Beaufort County Arts Council, the North Carolina Estuarium and Goose Creek State Park.

“Of all the programs the chamber does, Leadership Beaufort is one of the most important because it educates people about where we choose to live,” said Catherine Glover, executive director of the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce. “It allows people to get involved and to know the inner workings of the area.”

If you are prepared for an opportunity to explore Beaufort County, request an application from the chamber or call 252-946-9168. Applications must be received by Feb. 10.