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5 C's Leadership Lab

Innovative Thinking for the New Era of VFW Leadership

A mission-driven resource hub for VFW leaders of today and tomorrow, featuring resourceful guides, training tools, campaign updates, and shared perspectives to help you lead with confidence and bring the 5Cs to life across your Post and beyond.

Stay informed. Lead with purpose. Keep the Mission in Motion.

CMRD 101 - Building VFW Comradeship at the Post Level resource graphic
Camaraderie in the VFW
Dwayne Kilbourne

CMRD 101: Building VFW Comradeship at the Post Level

Comradeship is more than a buzzword within the Veterans of Foreign Wars; it’s the lifeblood of a thriving Post. CMRD 101 explores the foundational steps to foster strong, authentic bonds among members, from organizing inclusive social events to encouraging mutual support and mentorship. This resource highlights how intentional engagement, shared experiences, and a welcoming culture can transform a Post into a true home for veterans of all backgrounds. Whether you’re a Post leader or a new member, you’ll learn practical strategies to build camaraderie that lasts beyond the meeting hall. With some effort, you can make building VFW Comradeship a more successful endeavor.

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July 27, 2025 11:24 am
CMIT 102 - Understanding the VFW Mission & Obligations resource graphic
Commitment
Dwayne Kilbourne

CMIT 102: Understanding the VFW Mission and Obligations

In CMIT 102, we take a deeper look at the heart of what drives the Veterans of Foreign Wars: the VFW Mission and the enduring VFW Obligations that every comrade upholds. This course outlines the core values, advocacy efforts, and operational responsibilities that guide our organization and bind us together in service to veterans, their families, and our communities. Whether you’re a new member or a seasoned leader, understanding these foundational commitments is essential to advancing the VFW’s legacy and impact.

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July 21, 2025 1:58 pm
POST 202 - Double Down on VFW Delegate Strength resource graphic
Post Operations
Dwayne Kilbourne

POST 202: Double Down on VFW Delegate Strength

Maximizing your Post’s impact goes beyond membership; it’s about influence. In POST 202: Double Down on VFW Delegate Strength, we explore how Posts can grow their voice at District, Department, and National levels by increasing delegate strength. Learn how to strategically build membership, report accurately, and ensure your Post is positioned to lead when it matters most.

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July 19, 2025 7:48 am
POST 201 - Chasing the Captain - All-State with Distinction resource graphic
Post Operations
Dwayne Kilbourne

POST 201: Chasing the Captain – VFW All-State Program With Distinction

Chasing the title of All-State Captain isn’t about chance. Instead, it’s about calculated leadership, strategic planning, and Post-wide teamwork. In this intermediate course, commanders and their teams will learn how to decode the All-State criteria, build a winning calendar, engage members, and avoid common setbacks. If your Post is ready to lead from the front, this resource offers the tools to pursue excellence with distinction.

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July 18, 2025 10:16 am
POST 103 - Preparing for the Post Inspection resource graphic
Post Operations
Dwayne Kilbourne

POST 103: Preparing for the VFW Post Inspection

Post inspections don’t have to be stressful. They can be an opportunity for growth. This course helps Post leaders prepare year-round with checklists, best practices, and teamwork strategies to ensure a smooth, successful inspection that strengthens transparency and accountability.

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July 17, 2025 1:48 pm
POST 102 - Simplifying with Standing Rules resource graphic resource graphic
Post Operations
Dwayne Kilbourne

POST 102: Simplifying With VFW Post Standing Rules

Standing rules are the key to reducing confusion, promoting consistency, and streamlining your Post’s day-to-day operations. This course shows how to create, update, and apply effective standing rules that support leadership transitions, clarify expectations, and keep your Post running smoothly without rewriting the bylaws.

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July 16, 2025 11:06 am
POST 101 - Post Bylaw Basics resource graphic
Post Operations
Dwayne Kilbourne

POST 101: VFW Post Bylaws Basics

A well-run VFW Post starts with a strong foundation, and that foundation is built on clear, effective bylaws. POST 101: Post Bylaw Basics equips Post leaders with the knowledge to understand, apply, and amend their governing documents with confidence, ensuring transparent, mission-aligned operations.

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July 15, 2025 1:23 pm
CMIT 101 - Why We Serve, The Heart of the VFW resource graphic
Commitment
Dwayne Kilbourne

CMIT 101: Why We Serve – The Heart of the VFW

CMIT 101: Why We Serve – The Heart of the VFW explores the deeper meaning behind continued service after military life. Grounded in tradition, values, and camaraderie, this foundational course reminds VFW leaders and members alike that true purpose begins with understanding the heart of the VFW—service, sacrifice, and a mission that endures.

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July 15, 2025 11:13 am
COMM 106 - Communicating with New and Transferring Members resource graphic
Communication
Dwayne Kilbourne

COMM 106: Communicating with New and Transferring Members

Welcoming new and transferring members isn’t just a formality, for it’s the foundation for lasting engagement. COMM 106 explores how VFW Posts can build strong, personalized communication strategies to ensure every new face feels connected, valued, and ready to get involved from day one.

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July 11, 2025 12:44 pm
COMM 105 - Communicating with Inactive & At-Risk Members resource graphic
Communication
Dwayne Kilbourne

COMM 105: Communicating with Inactive and At-Risk Members

COMM 105 equips VFW leaders with the tools to reconnect with inactive and at-risk members through compassionate outreach, personalized communication, and purposeful re-engagement. Learn how to segment your membership, make meaningful contact, and create a welcoming path back into Post life.

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July 10, 2025 10:41 am
COMM 104 - Conducting Effective Buddy Checks resource graphic
Communication
Dwayne Kilbourne

COMM 104: Conducting Effective Buddy Checks

The buddy system doesn’t end when military service does. In “Conducting Effective Buddy Checks,” we explore how simple, consistent outreach can strengthen bonds, prevent isolation, and even save lives. With practical tips and a renewed call to action, this article reinforces why checking in on our fellow veterans should be a core mission for every VFW member.

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July 9, 2025 9:07 am
COMM 103 - Internal Communication & Chain of Command resource graphic
Communication
Dwayne Kilbourne

COMM 103: Internal Communications and Chain of Command

Effective leadership starts with clear internal communication. In COMM 103: Internal Communications and Chain of Command, we dive into how VFW Posts can enhance operations by reinforcing communication protocols, respecting roles, and maintaining accountability. Strong chains of command aren’t about rank—they’re about clarity, trust, and mission readiness.

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July 8, 2025 1:43 pm
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