Free Training Offered to Aspiring Local Political Candidates

Three-part series aims to equip prospective candidates and campaign volunteers with tools for effective, community-focused campaigns.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Community members in Rochester, Minnesota who are considering running for local offices like school board, city council, or county board are invited to attend a free three-part training series. The program, sponsored by several local organizations, is designed to provide practical guidance on developing campaign plans, messaging, outreach strategies, and more to help prepare aspiring candidates to run effective, community-centered campaigns.

Why it matters

Encouraging more residents to run for local offices is seen as a way to strengthen community leadership and civic participation. Local elected positions make decisions that directly impact schools, public safety, infrastructure, taxes, and quality of life, so having a diverse range of candidates is important.

The details

The training series will be held over three evenings - March 11, March 25, and April 1 - at 125 Live in Rochester. The program is tailored for individuals interested in running for school board, city council, or county board positions. Participants will gain practical guidance on developing campaign plans and budgets, crafting messaging, using media and digital tools, and building voter outreach strategies.

  • The training series will be held from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on March 11, March 25, and April 1, 2026.
  • Advance registration is required.

The players

League of Women Voters

A nonpartisan civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government.

United Way of Southeast Minnesota

A nonprofit that works to improve lives and strengthen communities in the Southeast Minnesota region.

Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce

A business association that advocates for the Rochester, Minnesota business community.

Post Bulletin

A daily newspaper serving the Rochester, Minnesota area.

125 Live

A community center in Rochester, Minnesota that is hosting the training series.

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What’s next

Interested community members can register for the free training series through the United Way of Southeast Minnesota website.

The takeaway

This nonpartisan initiative aims to empower a diverse range of Rochester residents to consider running for local offices that make decisions impacting their community, strengthening civic leadership and participation.