By Derik Davis

As a native of Washington who strives to be active in our community, I have always prided myself on having a vast knowledge of the people and resources of Beaufort County. Upon learning that Leadership Beaufort offered participants a look at the governmental, public-safety, medical, educational, economic-development and nonprofit structure of this county, I felt the program would not provide any additional insight into the people, places and organizations that make this county what it is.

Even though I was skeptical that I would learn anything new, I decided to make the investment of enrolling in Leadership Beaufort. I am so glad I did. Each and every day of Leadership Beaufort, I learned something new and had opportunities to engage the leaders of our county about the great things happening in our midst everyday and the challenges that lie before us.

Leadership Beaufort provides participants an opportunity to have a detailed look into the many and varied aspects of what it takes to provide not only the essential services, but also an in-depth look at the nonprofit agencies that make life better for so many.

My initial skepticism about learning anything new quickly gave way to an overwhelming enthusiasm for each new opportunity that Leadership Beaufort offered.

Even though my Leadership Beaufort experience has ended, the friendships that were made with the other participants representing business interests all across the spectrum and the wonderful networking opportunities that this program provided continue to pay off.

In summary, my participation in Leadership Beaufort was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I learned so much about this county and all that makes it such a special place to live.

Go ahead and walk through the doors that Leadership Beaufort will open for you. You will be amazed, as I was, at the depth of knowledge and opportunity it provides.

To register for Leadership Beaufort, contact the Washington-Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce at 252-946-9168

Derik Davis, a funeral director with Paul Funeral Home is a 2011 Leadership Beaufort graduate.