Leadership Saint Joseph launches its 2014 class Thursday.

Thirty area residents will work on problem-solving and team-building challenges during the year-long program. The United Way’s goal is to develop the skills of individuals to be effective leaders in the community.

It starts Thursday and Friday with a retreat at Green Acres facilitated by Dr. Tim Crowley of Crowley Leadership.

More than 700 residents have graduated from the Leadership Saint Joseph program.