Initiatives of Change

Connecting Communities Fellowship Program

Alex Wise leads CCFP participants on a walk through Richmond's history (Photo: Will Jenkins)

This integrated approach to constructive community change is based on the nationally and internationally recognized work of Initiatives of Change and its program Hope in the Cities. It increases the capacity of communities to overcome divisions of race, culture, economics and politics by creating a network of skilled facilitators and communicators, capable team builders, informed advocates and credible role models.

CCFP equips leaders from diverse backgrounds with increased ability to address critical issues and to work creatively to build shared visions for reconciliation and justice. It connects theory with practice, personal transformation with social change, appreciation of diversity with shared vision, and reconciliation with justice. It is based on "honest conversation," acceptance of personal responsibility, and public acts of reconciliation as a basis for building new relationships. The curriculum includes:

Personal skills and qualities for constructive action in the community

Acknowledging and healing history

Honest conversation: two sessions exploring dialogue development and facilitation

Multi-sector team development

A faculty of scholars and practitioners in the field lead the program, together with facilitators and trainers with extensive national and international experience. The modules build on each other to form a complete training experience based on the methodology of Hope in the Cities. The program uses experiential and innovative learning methods, as well as selected local, national and international scenarios that illustrate ways to achieve partnerships and to build capacity.

CCFP PowerPoint Overview with notes

Email for information

Visit the Hope in the Cities website