Community Strong: The Catalyst Project
Building ripples that last. In Livingston County, MI and around the world
What happens outside the office shapes everything inside it.
Community Strong trains and equips local leaders to spark belonging, wellbeing, and better collaboration.
At work. At school. And in the places we live.
Choose your path:
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Livingston County Pilot: hands-on local impact with neighbors and businesses.
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Global Cohort (Practical Strengths): lead projects in your own city, organization, or niche – anywhere in the world.
Bonus Invitation (limited time): Early participants may be featured in Jo’s upcoming Practical Strengths book, 34 Words That Can Change the World, showcasing real Community Strong projects. If you want your work and story highlighted, now’s the moment to jump in.
How it works (fast)
- Learn the playbook. Brief Catalyst training grounded in CliftonStrengths + practical facilitation.
- Lead a micro-project. A simple, measurable initiative (recognition, connection, or wellbeing).
- Share the ripple. Capture outcomes, stories, and tips so others can replicate the impact.
Time: ~6 weeks of training • Commitment: 2–4 hrs/week for one year • Support: mentors + templates
Livingston County Pilot (Local)
Make good things happen right here at home. Ideal for business owners, educators, civic doers, and neighbors who want to co-create a stronger, kinder community.
You’ll do: one micro-project (e.g., a “Kindness Week,” cross-business recognition drive, youth voice panel, or neighbor night).
You’ll get: training, team projects, mentorship, and spotlight opportunities.
Global Cohort (Practical Strengths)
Bring Community Strong to your workplace, school, nonprofit, or city – wherever you are in the world.
You’ll do: one project tailored to your context (team communication reset, volunteer appreciation, “belonging” story campaign, etc.).
You’ll get: training, peer circle support, and the chance to be featured in the book.
What You’ll Gain
Clarity & tools
A repeatable, strengths-based engagement framework.
Confidence
Practice facilitation and community leadership on a real project.
Credibility
Outcomes you can show (and possibly publish!).
Connection
A network of Catalyst peers – local and global.
Who this is for
Leaders, managers, educators, small-biz owners, nonprofit pros, students, and community builders who want practical wins (not theory) and measurable momentum (not burnout).
Quick details
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Cohort kickoffs: January 2026 (rolling starts thereafter)
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Priority application deadline: December 28, 2025
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Investment:
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Local Leader: $500* (includes all training and CS Assessment if needed)
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Catalyst Apprentice: $100/mo for 12 months or $1000
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Catalyst Coach Certification: $2,500 (can make payments)
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*Scholarships and “hours-for-tuition” options available for local pilot roles.
Is this the same as becoming a Catalyst Coach?
This project is the on-ramp. You can join as a local leader or apprentice and later move on to certify as a Catalyst Coach.
Do I need to know CliftonStrengths already?
No. We’ll teach you the essentials and provide templates you can use right away. Start as a novice, leave as an expert.
What counts as a project?
Anything that increases connection, recognition, or wellbeing. We’re applying a proven framework in various settings to show how much can be accomplished in just one year.
How do book features work?
Submit your project story + outcomes using our template. Strong, replicable projects are likely to be featured in Jo’s upcoming Practical Strengths book (with permission and proper credit). You’ll be supported throughout the process.
What kind of support will I have?
Expect both group and individual support. We understand there is a learning curve and we are here to help you succeed. Jo will be offering direct mentoring and project management as well.
Do I need to have a project in mind?
Nope. If the idea is enough to interest you, we will figure out the best fit for your passion and skills and create a structured proposal and optimal project just for you. In many cases, Jo, or a Trained Catalyst Leader, will be there accompany you in the process.