Local residents with an interest in diversity should take note, as a Blandin Foundation program for diversity leaders is coming to town.

The Blandin Foundation will hold informational meetings on Feb. 23 for its Leadership in Ethnically Diverse Communities program.

“One of the things you want to do is help people become involved in leadership in the community,” said Bonnie Rietz, former Austin mayor and member of the Blandin Board of Trustees. “With our diverse populations growing, we very much want them sitting at the table and helping to make decisions.”

The upcoming program is the 10th Blandin program in Austin since the foundation began in 1988. This program is specifically looking for ways to create a more inclusive community. Rietz said about 30 residents will be part of the program, with at least 20 members coming from Austin’s communities of color.

Local organizers and Blandin staff will share information from noon to 1 p.m. and from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at the Hormel Historic Home.

Information and applications for participation also are available at Blandin Foundation’s website, www.blandinfoundation.org, or by calling 877-882-2257. LEDC brochures, including applications, are available at the Austin Public Library or Austin Area Chamber of Commerce.