Northwest Outward Bound School’s Post

Happy Labour Day! On my recent visit to the new Redford Library in Detroit, I was struck by their innovative approach to libraries. These aren't just places for books; they're vibrant spaces for knowledge sharing in every sense. It's a transformation I've seen before, yet it never fails to inspire. Imagine a library where upskilling classes meet entrepreneurship specialties, where maker spaces hum with creativity, and where community service providers offer support to those experiencing homelessness. These spaces are beacons of accessibility, reaching out to those often overlooked by public institutions. Libraries stand at the crossroads of economic development, community impact, and wellness, serving as fertile ground for ideas and innovation to flourish. This Labour Day, it's important to recognize not just the labor movement's historical achievements but also the ongoing efforts of our local library union in Windsor-Essex. Recently, they have been in the news for advocating better working conditions and resources, ensuring that libraries remain inclusive and accessible to all. Closer to home, standout librarians like Kate Reynolds are doing incredible, badass work. They're on the front lines, fighting against the tide of banned books and curating inclusive collections that reflect the diverse voices of our community. It's crucial for every library user to see themselves in the stories and knowledge available to them. Libraries are evolving beyond conventional boundaries. and there is so much potential for our local and regional library system in Windsor and Essex County. They're not just about lending books; they're about lending a hand, a voice, and a platform for growth and inclusion. They are spaces where everyone, regardless of background, can learn, connect, and thrive. Let's celebrate these amazing leaders who are transforming libraries into dynamic centers of innovation and inclusivity. They're not just keeping the doors open; they're opening doors to new possibilities for everyone.

I figure that I'm overdue for an update. After celebrating 6 transformative years with the org on August 1, I am moving on from my role at Grassroots Leadership. It has been an amazing journey doing dope work with people that I love, AND it is time for me to have a different role in this movement. August 14 will be my last day as a staff member with the org that became my political home when I didn't know that I needed one. That brings me to my next update... The jouney of reentry is a lifelong process, and its landscape is treacherous for justice-involved people. Access to quality housing, employment, health care, education, and child care - to name only a few - are challenges that often decide between life, death, and institutions. Between the wave of drug-war PoWs being released after decades of warehousing and the people currently trapped in a "revolving door" relationship with incarceration, the reentry piece of carceral transformation is more important than ever. I know that the life I enjoy today is the exception to the rule. The thing is... I think the rule is firkn ridiculous, and I want to delete it. We want the exception to become the expected. We want to clear the obstacles keeping justice-involved people from having a real chance at prosperity. Now I have a chance to do something about it. As of August 1, I am the Executive Director of Building Promise USA. Time to barbecue or mildew. Who wants to change the landscape with us?

What a great way to mentor, lead and guide the future of our youth! This type of corporate leadership will definitely mold the future of these youth and show them potential careers they may not have been aware of. Great job Total Vision! This is a great example and challenge to all companies big and small. Who is next to share their story? #youthdevelopment #boysandgirlsclub #corporateleadership #buildingbenchstrength

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s profound words, "Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhumane," continue to resonate deeply in the fight for health equity. They serve as a powerful reminder that access to quality healthcare is not just a matter of policy—it is a fundamental human right. Injustice in healthcare perpetuates disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities, amplifying the cycles of poverty, illness, and inequality. These words inspire healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocates to strive for systems that prioritize equity, dignity, and justice for all. 📘 💡 #HealthEquity #SocialJustice #HealthcareForAll #InjusticeInHealthcare #MLK

Overall, Cincinnatians feel better about their city. Cincinnati improved in all five broad categories. Here are the percent answering "excellent" or "good" when asked about Cincinnati: As a place to live: 2021: 79% 2023: 81% As a place to work: 2021: 75% 2023: 77% As a place I feel welcome: ·        2021: 67% ·        2023: 74% As a place to raise children: ·        2021: 67% ·        2023: 70% As a place to retire: ·        2021: 47% ·        2023: 51%

Our Industry Needs Community More Than Ever In early childhood education, we’ve always known the power of connection. We see it daily in the bonds children form, the relationships we nurture with families, and the partnerships we build with our colleagues. But right now, our industry is facing challenges that no one can navigate alone. Staffing shortages, burnout, and the constant push for recognition remind us just how much we need each other. Community is more than a buzzword; it’s our lifeline. It’s where we find support, share resources, and amplify our voices for change. It’s the safe space where ideas flow, solutions are born, and hope is restored. Let’s lean into community — whether it’s by reaching out to a colleague, joining a professional group, or engaging in meaningful conversations. When we come together, we remind the world that ECE isn’t just about caring for children; it’s about creating a better future for all of us.

Thinking about bringing community together - around a table, about a divisive topic - feels especially significant this week. I've been doing a lot of reflecting on how to create time, space and conditions for intentional gathering and connecting in my own family. How are you preparing in your own community? These reflections raise important questions about how we can collectively create spaces where everyone feels welcome and included. I'm honored to be hosting a webinar with Jose Garcia to share ways experts in the field - teachers, students and family members - are working together to foster welcoming and inclusive communities. We’ll also introduce a new tool designed to support communities in building these meaningful connections. Register to join us at the link below! #NTN #deeperlearning #community #communityengagement #belonging #deeperleading #gathering

I wish I had captured the momemts, but speaking to representatives from Robin Hood was an incredible experience that enhanced my ability to share my story and showcase how CEO supports and empowers justice impacted individuals. Thank you, Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), for these amazing opportunities. #CEO #JusticeImpacted #RobinHood #SocialImpact #Empowerment #CriminalJusticeReform #SecondChances #Funders #CommunityChange #NonprofitWork #CEOWorks"

Mission: Defending democracy through civic education, career development, and community coalitions. Vision: 1) To make civic education fun and interesting for elementary and secondary school students so that they are excited to vote when they turn 18. 2) To help great people get elected into public office, and support them in their journeys to be effective representatives versus just "politicians". 3) To strengthen the connections between non-profits, community groups, and grassroots organizations, with the decision makers in government.

The internet has revolutionized our connectivity, but it comes with a caveat: the "internet bubble" effect. In our latest blog post, Allison Wickstrom, CSC, explores how these virtual echo chambers can limit our perspectives and impact community health. Key insights: • The comfort and limitations of online communities • Why face-to-face interactions remain crucial • Strategies for breaking out of your digital bubble Discover how to balance online engagement with real-world connections for a more inclusive, empathetic society. Read "Bursting the Bubble: Why It's Crucial to Step Out from Behind Your Keyboard" on our Medium publication. #DigitalWellbeing #CommunityEngagement #SocialMedia #EchoChamber