INVST Community Studies

Consistent with their vision for a just and sustainable world, the INVST Community Studies program develops engaged citizens and leaders who work for the benefit of humanity and the environment. INVST Community Studies innovatively operates as a community-based organization, practicing service learning and participatory education. In order to fulfill this mission, the program offers:

• a comprehensive two-year Community Leadership Program (CLP) focused on developing community leaders who engage in compassionate action as a lifetime commitment;
• Community Studies electives that foster civic responsibility and leadership potential;
• a Public Achievement Program where CU undergrads coach local primary and secondary school students in the design and implementation of public action projects; and
• a Youth Council for Public Policy that empowers young people to use the democratic process as a tool for positive social change. 

The INVST CLP offers a unique and transformational educational experience to all majors. Each year the INVST CLP admits a small group of students who are committed to making a positive difference with their lives. The two-year program is designed to cultivate deep understanding about issues facing people and the planet and to provide skills and experiences for community leaders to fulfill progressive visions for change. Specifically, students participate in theory classes, skills-training classes and two summer service-learning experiences, one domestic and one international. In addition, students intern six hours each week with community-based organizations during their first academic year, and collectively design, implement and evaluate community leadership projects during their second academic year. Students learn and serve together in a small group environment throughout the program. Applications for the INVST CLP are due every year in February. For more information, contact Sabrina Sideris at 303-492-8045.

Course code for this program is INVS. 

Minor in Leadership Studies

The Leadership Studies Minor is available to all undergraduates regardless of major or college. The Leadership Studies Minor provides academically based leadership training that incorporates:

• Understanding the broad context of leadership theory;
• Gaining a historical context of leadership;
• Developing core leadership competencies;
• Practicing and observing leadership experiences.

By including the Leadership Studies Minor with a chosen field of study, undergraduates will develop essential skills that prepare them for future work in fields such as community organizing, business, city government, and social services. The minor offers an important credential that distinguishes students in the job exploration process. The minor involves 16 credit hours of coursework that include a foundations course, three electives and a capstone course.

Students enrolled in the Leadership RAP, Presidents Leadership Class (CLC), INVST Community Studies and all ROTC units should talk to their respective programs about how these programs can become integrated as pathways to the Leadership Studies Minor.