Program FAQs
What are some specific issues that the course will address?
Political
Messaging
Voter Data
Fundraising
Press/Media
Communication Tools
Leadership
Self Reflection
Thinking Mindsets
Capacity Building
Communication & Persuasion
Conflict & Negotiations
Policy
Metro Districts
Water
Energy
Economic Development
Affordable Housing
What type of commitment is this course for an already busy person?
L3 is intentionally designed for people with full careers who want to be engaged in their community without stepping away from their professional responsibilities. The commitment is focused, practical, and respectful of your time.
Participants in L3 recognize that professional success carries civic responsibility. They believe leadership does not end at the workplace, and that strengthening a community requires understanding how local systems actually function. L3 provides that understanding, along with the perspective and relationships needed to engage locally with confidence and good strategy.
I’m not necessarily interested in running for office. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Throughout L3, we emphasize the distinction between advocacy and activism:
Activists often seek to raise awareness, shift culture, or apply public pressure to highlight an issue.
Advocates focus on influencing decision-makers, shaping outcomes, and navigating systems to achieve durable solutions.
L3 trains advocates.
Advocacy requires credibility, preparation, relationships, and an understanding of how power operates within institutions. While activism can help surface issues and short-term outcomes, advocacy is what turns ideas into policy, votes, and lasting impact. Participants will learn how to move ideas through systems, rather than just reacting to them.
What will this cost me in time and money?
The L3 class meets one Friday a month for six months/six total classes (January through June), and tuition is $1,200 with scholarship assistance available. For more details and to apply, click the button that corresponds with your region.
Meet the Team
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Tom Lucero
CO-FOUNDER
Tom has over 30 years of public affairs experience. He was elected to the Board of Regents at the University of Colorado for 12 years and has been actively involved in candidate and issue campaigns for three decades.
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Jenifer Freeman
ADVISOR
Jenifer Freeman is the Founder and CEO of Constellation Strategies, LLC. With more than fifteen years of experience in politics, policy, and community engagement in Colorado and Rocky Mountain West, Jenifer brings a depth of expertise and relationships that drive results.
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Steve O'Dorisio
ADVISOR
Steve O'Dorisio is a Colorado native, public servant, and educator who has dedicated his career to improving the lives of Adams County residents. With a strong foundation in education, he financed his bachelor's degree at Colorado State University through summer construction work and work-study programs. He later earned his law degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law while working full-time at a global management consulting firm.
Past Trainers Include…
Hon. Senator Hank Brown
Topic: Water
Ryan Winger, Magellan Strategies
Topic: Data and Polling
Melanie Ulle, Philanthropy Expert LLC
Topic: Fundraising
Jeff Stahla, Northern Water
Topic: Water in Northern Colorado
Darin Atteberry, former Ft. Collins city manager
Topic: Staff/Council Member Relations
Saja Hindi, The Denver Post
Topic: Press Relations
Sarah Crosthwaite, Town of Johnstown
Topic: Economic Development
Hon. Terrance Carroll, Former Speaker
Topic: Leadership
Sean Hawkins, Loveland DDA
Topic: Downtown Development
Kait Schwartz, API Colorado
Topic: Oil and Gas
Brendan Campbell, Pinnacle Consulting Group
Topic: Metro Districts
Jeff Feneis, Loveland Housing Authority
Topic: Qualified Affordable Housing
Jason Sherrill, Landmark Homes
Topic: Private-Sector Affordable Housing Efforts
Leah Johnson, L3 Co-Founder
Topic: Messaging, fundraising
Contact us
tom@leveraginglocalleaders.com
Loveland, Colorado
L3 is a 501(c)(3), so your donations are tax-deductible.