The Catalyst Role

Become a Catalyst

Building a Stronger Community Starts With You

Applications are open until November 6 at 6 p.m. for a chance to be selected as a 2026 KCCI Community Catalyst. 

KCCI Community Catalysts are change agents. They make a volunteer commitment to educate, engage and enable fellow citizens to build a more authentic, sustainable and prosperous community.

2026 Project Concept

Help Reimagine & Re-energize Our Neighborhoods

After the removal of artistic crosswalks near local schools and in neighborhoods, school leaders, and residents city-wide have continued to ask: “How can we add creativity and vibrancy back by our schools and neighborhoods?” 

KCCI’s 2026 Community Catalyst team of passionate volunteers will lead a bold placemaking initiative to enhance these special places by adding creativity and vibrancy back into these neighborhoods where the artistic crosswalks have been lost. Together, the team will work with schools, local leaders, and residents to restore pride, identity, and beauty in the nine neighborhoods most affected—by reimagining public spaces and developing a plan that brings art, connection, and vibrancy back to our neighborhoods.

This project is about reclaiming the spirit of neighborhoods surrounding schools through creativity and collaboration using placemaking tools.

Considerations for Applicants

  • Applicants must reside in Leon County. To accomplish the project goals we meet weekly, in person.
  • The 2026 Community Catalyst Class will be announced in December 2025. Once you successfully submit your application you will receive an automated confirmation e-mail. If you do not receive an email contact KCCI Executive Director Betsy Couch.
  • Catalyst applicants do not need a background in any particular field, as this effort will require skills and experience across a range of professions, as well as diverse perspectives from all walks of life..  

Before you begin the application, it is helpful to have already written out brief or bulleted answers to the following:

  • Why do you want to join KCCI?
  • What will you bring to the team?
  • What recommendations or ideas do you have for the project concept?
  • What is your most important accomplishment in the community thus far? (Note: It is ok if you don’t have anything major to list)
  • It is also helpful to go ahead and gather contact information (email, phone#) for 3 references, and have a headshot or casual photo ready to upload (this image will be used on social media and to introduce you as a Catalyst).
  • Please do not include emojis in your answers.

If you have the answers to the above ready, then the application takes less than 10 minutes to complete. 

If you care about community and creativity and want to make a visible difference — you belong on the 2026 KCCI Community Catalyst team.

Applicants should be passionate about our community. Helpful professional areas of expertise include but are not limited to strategic planners, communications, grant writing, web design and development, public relations, fundraising, project management, operations, administration, research, and entrepreneurship. Time spent living and working in other communities also provides invaluable perspective to complement that of those who have lived in Tallahassee for decades.

Apply Here

Applications are due by November 6 at 6 p.m.