Community Advancement Division

Purpose Statement

The Community Advancement Leadership Institute (CALI), led by the Community Advancement Division, provides free and affordable, community-centered training and events. We focus on career advancement, youth leadership development, non-profit training and development and capacity building to equip Savannah residents and organizations with the tools and skills necessary to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Vision Statement
To create a thriving and empowered Savannah community where adults, youth, grassroots organizations, and non-profit agencies achieve self-sufficiency, sustainable growth, and impactful leadership through accessible training, development, and capacity-building initiatives.

Training Opportunities:

We provide job-focused training that leads to industry-recognized certifications in high-demand fields, including:

Our Four Leadership Development Tracks:

• Community & Neighborhood Development

• Non-Profit & Organizational Leadership

• Career & Personal Development (*See Emerge link below)

• Youth Development (CLICK HERE)

To learn more about CALI and Class Registration

Emerge is a workforce development initiative designed to provide job training scholarships and support services to income eligible Savannah residents.

Complete the Emerge Program Interest Form

(CLICK HERE FOR CDA AND CNA)

- Child Development Associate (CDA)

- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

(CLICK HERE FOR FTM AND CKC)

- Fast Track Manufacturing (FTM)

- Culinary Kitchen Cook (CKC)

Savannah Youth Ambassadors participate in leadership development sessions and hands-on activities that encourage personal, social, and civic development. Guest facilitators will present on topics such as social media, life after high school, the history of Savannah and its neighborhoods, and much more. Participants will explore various local businesses as well as civic, academic, and cultural institutions. The program culminates with participants designing, coordinating, and implementing a collaborative, make a difference community impact project. Learn more about the Savannah Youth Ambassadors.

It is the purpose of the Savannah Youth Council (SYC) to provide local youth with the experience of working with city government while obtaining a sense of civic responsibility as well as the opportunity to develop and demonstrate leadership skills. Composed of a diverse group of 8th grade students, the Savannah Youth Council is a result of the Mayor and Aldermen’s vision to provide a support system which will encourage young people to expand, develop, and grow toward a successful and productive future. The Youth Council provides members with leadership opportunities and knowledge of local government. Savannah Youth Council has been in existence since 2004. Learn more about the Savannah Youth Council