This qualitative study, as part of a larger mixed-methods study, explored the manifestations of community leadership structures –capacity for change, community growth mindset, civic engagement, and effective local leadership– and the differences in these manifestations between communities with a record of leadership success and their matched counterparts. Findings showed that a community's leadership system is highly complex and multidimensional, extending beyond individual leaders. Differences in the system between the two community types were also evident, especially in the type of community mindset, resilience to negativity, portrayal of a united front, and bringing diverse voices together.
