The Academy

Training Leaders to take on the world…

We recruit, train and prepare formerly incarcerated people (FIP) and their allies to run for office across the state of Louisiana and equip them with the necessary resources and knowledge to build up and run successful campaigns.

Candidate Development

the Candidate Development portion of the Academy is a critical component in helping individuals interested in running for public office to understand the complex and ever-evolving landscape of politics.

Through engaging lectures, interactive activities, and one-on-one coaching sessions, we equip candidates with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage their campaigns and connect with constituents.

Course Overview

The Candidate School, offers a range of courses designed to prepare prospective candidates for public office. Our courses cover everything from campaign finance laws and messaging to public speaking and voter outreach. We also offer training on effective communication and leadership skills to help our candidates become successful leaders. Our experienced instructors offer both classroom-based learning and hands-on training opportunities to ensure that our candidates receive a comprehensive education. By taking our courses, aspiring politicians will have the knowledge and skills needed to launch a successful campaign and, ultimately, make a positive impact on their communities.

  • This module covers essential aspects of campaigning that include understanding ballot access, notice of candidacy, and acquiring voter lists. We believe that having a deep understanding of these important aspects of running for office is vital for any aspiring candidate. By the end of the course, students will gain practical knowledge and skills required to navigate the campaign process, creating a solid foundation for their candidacy.

  • Establishing purpose is the foundation of building a strong and captivating narrative, the members of the cohort will work on building their personal stories and answer questions such as: ‘Why am I seeking office’, ‘What value do I believe I have to contribute to my community?’, ‘How will my presence in office shift from the status quo?’

  • This module covers various topics such as understanding campaign management, data management, organizing models, staff hiring, volunteer and recruitment management, coalition building and more. It is designed to equip aspiring candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to develop a successful campaign strategy. Through this course, participants will learn how to identify their target audience, craft persuasive messages, and build effective coalitions.

  • This module provides hands-on training on how to build a digital presence, create a compelling messaging and successful marketing strategies. Our course also teaches phone banking skills and how to leverage social media effectively to reach potential voters. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of a quality website that establishes credibility and builds trust among viewers. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that our students are equipped with all the necessary skills to take on a leadership role and create a positive impact in their communities.

  • This module covers the important areas of budgeting and resource allocation, finance reporting, lobbyists and political action committees. The module also delves into grassroots fundraising and confronting dark money. Participants will learn how to create a budget for a campaign, allocate resources effectively, track finances, and navigate the complicated world of lobbying and PACs. They will also learn how to raise funds from grassroots supporters and confront the influence of dark money in politics. By the end of this module, participants will understand the key financial and resource-related aspects of running for office and be better equipped to run a successful campaign.

Campaign Management

The Campaign Management portion of the Academy is an essential training program for those who are passionate about politics and want to make a difference in their community.

This program is designed to equip organizers and community members with the necessary skills to work effectively on political campaigns, from crafting effective messages to building a strong, grassroots support base. 

Course Overview

The Campaign Management School offers a comprehensive overview of essential skills and strategies required to run successful political campaigns in today's dynamic landscape. Through a combination of practical exercises, case studies, and expert-led discussions, this course equips participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively organize, build coalitions, utilize data, comprehend communications and technology, and develop a compelling story of self. Participants will delve into organizing practices that empower them to mobilize communities, engage volunteers, and map out strategic campaign plans. Additionally, they will explore the art of building strong coalitions and partnerships, leveraging their collective power to achieve shared goals and impact

  • This module equips community members with the necessary tools and strategies to navigate and thrive in challenging circumstances. From developing comprehensive campaign plans to mobilizing volunteers and implementing dynamic communication strategies, our program empowers individuals to take charge and make a difference. We emphasize the importance of building strong coalitions, fostering solidarity among diverse groups, and leveraging technology to maximize outreach and engagement. Our curriculum is rooted in real-world experiences and lessons learned, providing practical insights into addressing the unique challenges we face today.

  • This module is where the true magic of community organizing happens. We understand that creating lasting change requires more than just individual efforts; it requires the power of unity. This module delves deep into the intricacies of building and maintaining strong community-based coalitions, understanding the complexities that lie within.
At the heart of any coalition lies the ability to bring together diverse voices and harness their collective strength. We equip participants with the tools to engage different stakeholders, such as local organizations, community leaders, and passionate individuals, to rally behind a common cause. We emphasize the importance of inclusivity, empathy, and open communication to ensure that all perspectives are heard and respected

  • The Leveraging Data module is an essential component that equips campaigners with the invaluable skills to harness the power of data, polling, and information to their campaign's advantage. By understanding the intricacies of data analysis, campaigners can uncover invaluable insights into voter behavior, preferences, and sentiment. Armed with this knowledge, they can strategically tailor their messaging, target specific demographics, and tailor their campaign strategies to resonate with constituents on a deeper level. By leveraging data, polling, and information effectively, campaigners can make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and ultimately increase their chances of success. The Leveraging Data portion of the Academy empowers campaigners to wield data as a powerful tool, transforming their campaigns from mere shots in the dark to strategic and well-informed approaches that resonate with voters.

  • This module provides hands-on training on how to build a digital presence, create a compelling messaging and successful marketing strategies. Our course also teaches phone banking skills and how to leverage social media effectively to reach potential voters. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of a quality website that establishes credibility and engenders trust among viewers. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that our students are equipped with all the necessary skills to take on a leadership role and create a positive impact in their communities.

  • The fellowship module is designed to connect our cohort members with current, active campaigns, allowing them to gain invaluable real-world experience. Through this unique opportunity, our fellows are ushered into the heart of the action, where they can actively contribute to and observe the inner workings of political campaigns. They will have the chance to work side by side with experienced professionals, learning firsthand the intricacies of campaign strategy, grassroots organizing, and effective communication. Our fellowship program provides immense value, not only for the campaigns they assist, but also for the personal and professional growth of our cohort members. It is through these immersive experiences that they will develop the skills, networks, and confidence necessary to become successful change-makers in the political landscape.

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