A unique new concept to help develop leadership in the region will begin right here in the area. It's called the Heartland Leadership Labs. The labs are focused on bringing high-level nationally known leaders to the region to help nurture and develop leadership.

"Strong leadership can impact our families, communities, organizations, and an entire country," says Brad Aycock, one of the organizers. Growing up in southeast Missouri, then starting a business, Aycock saw a shortage of these opportunities.

"Whenever we wanted to learn from the gurus, we'd have to read their books or drive to St. Louis or Memphis for their conferences. Not anymore," Aycock notes. Aycock adds that there are future teachers, CEO's, and Presidents walking the streets of southeast Missouri. Many make it, but sadly some don't.

"We want to be intentional and focused on creating opportunities for all of us to learn from the best in the country, right here in our area, at a very affordable price," says Aycock. Oftentimes conferences can provide energy for awhile, but it sometimes wears off. With the Leadership Labs concept, people will get the frequency needed to make it stick. The speaker lineup rivals any conference you may see in the larger cities. On Sept. 30, Dr. Tim Elmore will teach on Habitudes. Dr. Elmore is the founder and president of Growing Leaders (growingleaders.com) and consultant for Chick-fil-A, as well as many major league baseball and NCAA football teams. He also works with schools across the country to help identify and develop the next generation of leaders.

His latest groundbreaking book, "Generation iY: Our Last Chance to Save Their Future" has been a major benefit in helping corporations and franchises work with and understand the next generation.

On Oct. 28, Sue Nilson Kibbey will bring her expertise in Strengths based leadership. Kibbey consults with organizations on leading by strengths - based on the best selling book "StrenghtsFinder 2.0." In 2005 she was recognized as one of the top ten non-profit business administrators in America.

On Nov. 18, former St. Louis Ram and future Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams will be discussing the importance of teamwork in an organization. Williams had a stellar NFL career and eventually helped lead the Rams to a Super Bowl in 2001. His latest book, "It Takes Respect" discusses how leaders must earn the respect of their peers in order to take the organization to the next level - Teamwork makes the Dream work.

"If a business person, educator, church leader, or civic leader can make it to these labs, you'll see a difference. That difference can have a great ripple effect. Our hope is that these rare opportunities could tap into our potential and unleash a movement to greatly impact our region and the world." says Aycock.

The Heartland Leadership Labs will be held in the Family Life Center at First United Methodist Church in Sikeston.

For information on pricing, speakers, dates, and tickets, visit heartlandleadershiplabs.com or call 573.421.1824.