Participants are selected annually through a competitive process. Leadership Kitsap's goal is a cross section of individuals representing diverse interests, backgrounds and cultural experiences. The program lasts ten months and consists of two leadership retreats and eight forums centered around major public policy challenges. Small-group community projects to create change are an integral part of the curriculum.

Retreats in September and in June focus on personal and public leadership skills. Individual leadership styles are analyzed, as well as group process skills of consensus building and conflict resolution. These structured retreats link substantive community issues with more abstract concepts of leadership.

Challenge Days occur once a month. Each day examines a key community issue such as urbanization, governance, economics, education, healthy communities, safe communities, and arts, recreation and parks. Presenters with differing perspectives and leadership involvement in the community appear each month.

Community Projects fill part of the ten-month period. Class members divide into teams to identify a community need and collaborate with existing community organizations in researching the issue, acquiring the necessary resources, and implementing creative approaches to the problems and opportunities facing our region.