LSP Community Project
![LSP Class Project[26]](https://growthzonecmsprodeastus.azureedge.net/sites/1888/2023/09/LSP-Class-Project26-e1695061451772-1536x626.jpeg "LSP Class Project[26]")
Each year, the Leadership St. Pete class gives back to our community through a civic-engagement, community service project that is completed during the term of the program.
A typical community project requires the class to build awareness, fundraise, and work hands-on at the nonprofit’s physical site to rehab a facility in need of some tender loving care.
The 2027 Community Project application will open summer 2026.
![LSPCP3[67]](https://growthzonesitesprod.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/3048/2023/09/LSPCP367.jpeg "LSPCP3[67]")
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Community Project Application Details
If you are an interested 501(c)(3) organization, we encourage you to submit the nomination form to be contacted by a committee member to learn more about the project and application process.
Community Project Application Process
- Every summer, applications open for local nonprofits to apply to be the next Community Project beneficiary.
- Applications are scored by the LSP Planning Committee.
- The Planning Committee conducts site visits of the top 5 applicants.
- Following the site visits, the Planning Committee narrows the group to 3 nonprofits.
- The top 3 nonprofits present to the class at Orientation Dinner in December.
- Class members then have the opportunity to visit and research each applicant prior to Opening Retreat.
- At the Opening Retreat in January, the class discusses each potential project and its impact, and the class members vote to select their Community Project.
- Once a majority vote is reached, the selected nonprofit is announced, and the Community Project begins!
Nonprofits must meet the following criteria to apply to be the 2027 Community Project beneficiary
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, a public school, or a division of a governmental entity
- Located and serving people who live in St. Petersburg or unincorporated Pinellas County. If your organization is located outside of St. Petersburg proper, you must show that you are having a significant impact on the City of St. Petersburg. Historically, preference has been given to projects located in the City of St. Petersburg boundaries.who live in the St. Petersburg area
- St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce member in good standing or be willing to become a Chamber member as part of the project requirements
- Fiscally sound, as demonstrated by required paperwork
- Continuous operation for a minimum of three (3) years; the recipient must own or have a long-term lease arrangement on the project site
- Have a specific project need that fits the Community Project criteria, and provide a clear project description, including a detailed scope and basic budget
- No known structural or hazardous conditions (e.g. termites, asbestos, etc.).
Nominate a Nonprofit
If you are an interested 501(c)(3) organization or want to nominate a deserving nonprofit, please submit the nomination form.
Looking for Previous Community Projects?
The Community Project has become a cornerstone of the Leadership St. Pete experience. It affords the class an opportunity to develop personal leadership skills through the organization, planning, and implementation of a major project while also giving something back to our community in a meaningful and lasting way.
Questions?
If you have questions, email the LSP Community Project team at lsp.pc.communityproject@gmail.com. For more information about Leadership St. Pete, visit leadershipstpete.com.