BECOME A MEMBER
Emerging leaders in the Greater Akron Area are encouraged to apply to become a member of Torchbearers. Members connect with one another, as well as with the community leaders through networking events, volunteer opportunities, and leadership and development workshops.
Applications for the Class of 2025 are open until June 30th, 2024. Click here to apply now!
BENEFITS OF BEING A TORCHBEARER
BUILD CONNECTIONS
Torchbearers is made up of civically-minded young professionals that share a passion for Akron. Members of Torchbearers form personal and professional bonds with like-minded peers. Members are able to expand their networks by meeting fellow members, leaders of local organizations, and the community at-large.
GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
Members participate in service volunteer opportunities throughout the year to leave a positive impact on the community. A variety of volunteer events are open to members throughout the year. These opportunities not only help the community, but they’re also a fun way to engage with your fellow Torchbearers and other community members.
DEVELOP AS A LEADER
First-year members engage in a leadership and development curriculum that includes 6 workshops throughout the year to better understand their top leadership qualities and how to cultivate these strengths. In addition to first-year workshops, other programming is curated for the entire organization throughout the year.
A TYPICAL MONTH AS A TB
YOU WILL HAVE:
- a committee meeting (on the committee of your choice)
- several options for volunteering events
YOU MIGHT HAVE:
- a General Membership Meeting (a.k.a. GMM – we have 5 of these per year)
- a Leadership & Development session (a.k.a. L&D session – first-year members have 6 per year)
- a social event (we host a variety of internal and external events each year)
THINGS TO NOTE:
- Almost all TB commitments occur in the evenings and on weekends (with the exception of some service events that are optional).
MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS & EXPECTATIONS
In order to apply, you must:
Be between ages 25 and 39 at the time of application
Have a long-term commitment to the Greater Akron Community
In order to be an active member, you must:
Attend all 6 first-year leadership development sessions
Regularly attend Torchbearers membership meetings and social events
Select and stay involved in one of our 5 committees
Pay annual dues of $400 for first-year members ($350 for returning members, $375 for returning members enrolled in continued L&D, scholarships available)
APPLICATION PROCESS
After the application period closes, applications are reviewed and scored by the Membership Committee. The top applicants have an interview in with 3 current Torchbearers members in order to learn more about the applicant and why they want to become a member.
The interview teams hold a selection meeting to identify the next class of approximately 40 individuals. Finally, the Board of Directors reviews and approves the class slate.
READY TO APPLY?
Applications for the Class of 2025 are open until June 30th, 2024. Click here to apply now!
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Check out our frequently asked questions or get in touch.