When Park City Community Foundation launched Leader Lab in 2025, the vision was clear: build pathways for emerging leaders from underrepresented communities to take seats at the tables where decisions get made. 

This year, that vision became reality. On May 4, 2026, the Community Foundation celebrated the completion of Leader Lab’s first cohort of 12 participants, a meaningful milestone in building a more representative Park City and Summit County. 

A Program Built for the Whole Community 

Leader Lab is a seven-month program equipping emerging leaders with the skills, networks, and confidence to serve on nonprofit boards, join civic committees, and advocate for the communities they represent. Across seven specialized modules, the first cohort explored leadership fundamentals, nonprofit governance, civic engagement, advocacy and policy, cultural competency, financial management, and professional mentorship. These conversations and modules were led by local leaders with deep expertise across each topic area.  

“This isn’t just about filling seats on boards,” said Joel Zarrow, Park City Community Foundation CEO. “It’s about ensuring that the people making decisions about our community’s future truly represent and understand the needs of all residents.” 

These 12 community members brought a range of backgrounds and perspectives that reflect the full breadth of Park City.  

“Before Leader Lab, I would always try to find ways to bring myself to rooms and meetings,” said Jose Chacon, one of this year’s participants and a Community Foundation staff member. “After going through the program, I now have the skills to confidently show up for my community.” 

Upon completing the program, each participant also completed an online course through Harvard Business School on Leadership Principles, a tangible recognition of the knowledge and skills they built. Along with this, each participant was also matched with a mentor to continue supporting their growth as they step into leadership roles. This ongoing mentorship reflects Park City Community Foundation’s belief that developing strong leaders is a long-term investment. 

“Leader Lab was a great experience because I had the opportunity to sit in a room filled with established and emerging leaders who looked like me and shared a deep commitment to the community. Having a mentor who understands this complex world, and how to navigate being seen through a different lens, means having guidance, encouragement, and support as I step into new leadership spaces.” Leader Lab participant Chantal Guadarrama said. 

Leader Lab is one of the many ways the Community Foundation works to strengthen our community – now and in the future.  A second cohort is planned to launch later this Fall. To stay connected with upcoming programs and opportunities, visit parkcitycf.org or sign up for our newsletter.