Leadership Spokane is launching 509 Focus, a new pilot program designed for professionals seeking to broaden their networks and develop a better understanding of the Spokane community.

Jaxon Riley, executive director of Leadership Spokane, says, “The target demographic for it is, in particular, people who have just moved to Spokane, people that have been recently been promoted and they’re interested in expanding their network, or individuals who for one reason or another find it challenging to participate in our flagship program because of the demands of their workplace,” says .

The first 2.5-day program is scheduled for April 24-26.

Riley describes 509 Focus as an “abbreviated version” of Leadership Spokane’s 10-day flagship program, which is spread out over the course of 10 months.

“The idea behind this program was to exponentially increase the speed at which a person can become comfortable,” Riley says. “The class will be 40 people, so you instantly have 40 new contacts in the community.”

The program will cover topics ranging from the Spokane region’s economy to the way the local governments work to the health care culture in the Inland Northwest.

Subject-matter experts from a variety or sectors will be present throughout the program, giving attendees opportunities to ask questions about different topics.

“We will be inviting in experts from Spokane city government, from (Greater Spokane Incorporated), and from the local higher-education institutions,” says Riley.

Tuition for 509 Focus is $900.

The deadline to register is April 14.

Leadership Spokane was founded in 1982 by the Spokane Area Chamber of Commerce and a group of business and community leaders.