Apply to the BCLI

Through Urban Habitat's Boards and Commissions Leadership Institute (BCLI), leaders from low-income communities of color gain the skills and support to step into government decision-making roles. BCLI walks participants through the placement process for a board or commission seat, and stays with them, offering ongoing support once they are appointed and serving.

Participants leave the training equipped to make sense of complex, interconnected policy issues, move confidently within commission culture and language, and build the relationships that make their work effective.

The program is a hands-on commitment: monthly full-day Saturday sessions, weeknight gatherings, and webinars, in addition to readings and homework assignments.

Please check the 2027 schedule below to make sure you are able to attend all of the mandatory sessions before applying.

Why Apply?

• Build your understanding of how race and class intersect with transportation, housing, and land use policy — and sharpen your ability to advocate for more equitable outcomes. You'll come away with concrete ways to center the needs of communities that have historically been left out of the process.
• Develop core commissioner skills, from power mapping to Robert's Rules of Order to applying an inside/outside strategy.
• Join a facilitated learning community made up of field experts, experienced commissioners, grassroots organizers, and elected officials, all sharing best practices, lessons learned, and key concepts along the way.
• Become part of a network of social justice advocates shaping policy decisions on local and regional commissions.