Jeremy Layman of Durant is one of 31 individuals from across the state that graduated from the Oklahoma Citizens Academy. This is a program of the Oklahoma Community Institute. In its seventh year, the Citizens Academy seeks to increase the number of local leaders that are making a positive impact on the development of their communities.
Layman serves Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Inc. (REI) as Housing Program Specialist. In his position, he markets REI’s down payment and closing cost assistance programs to help Oklahoma’s working families become proud homeowners. He also visits with businesses, economic development partners and mortgage lenders. Additional responsibilities include presentations to community leaders and civic groups and conducting homebuyer education classes.
According to Brenda Hood, Chair of the Citizens Academy, the program is designed to prepare citizens to accept a leadership role in their community. During the six sessions, participants learned the basics of community and economic development, while developing team building skills that can be replicated in their local communities.
The Oklahoma Citizens Academy is sponsored by the Oklahoma Community Institute. A major contributor to the program is Oklahoma Natural Gas and OG&E.
Visit www.ruralenterprises.com for a complete overview of services and office locations.