Finding Common Ground: Local Solutions for a Divided Nation
Photo: Houston Economic Mobility Summit, hosted by Greater Houston Community Foundation
During a time of deep division, community foundations are creating meaningful opportunities for people to come together, share ideas, and identify ways to tackle urgent community needs like homelessness, loneliness, transportation, mental health and education.
While these efforts take many forms, they share a common thread — namely that progress comes when people with differing perspectives work together to address challenges in their communities.
In Ohio, The Columbus Foundation hosts The Big Table, an annual community-wide day of conversation to encourage participants to discuss urgent issues such as mental health and housing.
Through Project Connect Grants and community conversations with leaders, Community Foundation of South Puget Sound in Washington state is working to reduce isolation and find common ground.
In Texas, Greater Houston Community Foundation hosted the inaugural Houston Economic Mobility Summit to create a space of shared learning and connection. Participants were able to discuss pressing issues related to economic mobility.
Other community foundations are using the arts to encourage collaboration and understanding.
In New York, Adirondack Community Foundation provided funding for the Borealis Singing Group, a group of locals who perform concerts for people nearing the end of their lives to provide comfort for them and their families.
The Community Foundation of the Ozarks funded live music performances for nursing homes and public schools and Vermont Community Foundation supported the documentary "Gone Guys," which has sparked honest, community-wide reflections on how to help young men feel valued and supported.
These stories represent just a fraction of the work being done by the more than 170 community foundations participating in the CFAI nationwide. By bridging divides and strengthening local ties, these organizations are proving that change starts at the local level.
