Community Resilence Builder Program

Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Community Resilience Builder Certificate Program. CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

Our communities are facing unprecedented challenges, from rising stress and mental health concerns to climate change, social division, and economic uncertainty. The future will belong to people who know how to bring others together, foster belonging, and help communities thrive.

If you've ever thought...

• I want to make a difference.
• I care deeply about my community.
• I want practical tools to create positive change.
• I'd like to grow personally while helping others.

...this program was designed for you.

Over the course of ten months, you'll join an inspiring, intergenerational cohort of people committed to building stronger communities. You'll learn from experts across multiple disciplines while developing your own community project and becoming part of a growing network of Community Resilience Builders.

What You'll Gain

• A Cornell University Certificate worth 5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
• 50 hours of engaging, interactive learning
• Practical tools to strengthen resilience, belonging, leadership, and well-being
• Training in dialogue facilitation, conflict transformation, community engagement, and regenerative leadership
• Support to design and implement a community project that reflects your passions and your community's needs
• A diverse network of educators, healthcare professionals, nonprofit leaders, business owners, faith leaders, public servants, students, and engaged community members who are working together to create lasting change.

Explore Topics Like

• The Science of Resilience & Well-Being
• Leadership for Community Change
• Building Belonging
• Trauma-Informed Practices
• Just Transition
• Social Imaginaries & Healing
• Circular Economies
• Community Dialogue & Facilitation
• Regenerative Communities

Who Should Apply?

You do not need to be an expert.

This program welcomes anyone who wants to contribute to healthier, more resilient communities—including educators, health and mental health professionals, nonprofit staff, first responders, local government employees, business leaders, students, retirees, volunteers, faith communities, and residents who simply care about where they live.

Program Details

• October 2026 – July 2027
• First Saturday of each month (9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.)
• One evening Zoom session each month
• Graduation celebration in July

Participant Stipend

Thanks to generous support from Orange & Rockland Utilities, participants receive a $1,000 stipend, distributed throughout the program based on attendance. Graduates also complete at least 30 hours of volunteer service, helping strengthen resilience across Orange County.

Build the Future – Together

Communities don't become resilient by accident.

They become resilient because ordinary people choose to show up, learn together, and take action.

Join the next cohort of Community Resilience Builders and become part of a growing movement creating healthier, more connected, and regenerative communities.

Applications are now open.

For more information, please contact Dr. Julika von Stackelberg, Team Leader, Family & Community Development, Cornell Cooperative Extension, at jv426@cornell.edu.

Last updated June 26, 2026