Thriving Communities Gathering November 2022

Thriving Communities Gatherings are unique opportunities for different groups doing aligned work to gather, learn and inspire each other. The November 2022 Gathering will focus on the trauma of incarceration, on hope, and on the power of community engagement.

 Why does this work matter? 

The United States has some of the highest recidivism rates in the world. According to the National Institute of Justice, “almost 44% of individuals released return before the end of their first year out of prison.” High rates of recidivism are  not just a public safety concern, but have tremendous impact on the lives of offenders who are often unable to break out of the cycle of repeat offending. The research also shows that, in general, children whose parents are incarcerated are at higher risk for increased antisocial behaviors and psychological problems, such as depression.

The November gathering is an opportunity to connect with ordinary people who chose to do major work in the country to reduce incarceration and recidivism rates and improve the lives of not just individuals but their families and their communities. The Gathering is open to anyone who feels called to meet the people doing this important work, contribute your own work and stories, and be together in an inspiring way. Many people leave Thriving Communities Gatherings with greater hope and understanding of what they can do to support change in their own community.

This two-day event will be held at the Whidbey Institute, a place of healing and deep work.

 Who will be there? 

Thriving Communities will host our Charlottesville team and representatives from three organizations who are active with all ages in incarceration and justice work.  Groups attending include:

• The Fountain Fund 
• Choose180 
• The Freedom Project 

Who should join us? 

Anyone who has a heart connection to this work and wants to learn more is welcome!

Agenda and Flow: 

The flow of Thriving Communities Gatherings is always determined by the people who attend. We incorporate open space and small circles to allow each person to fully participate in meaningful conversation, and to encourage connection and cross-collaborative ideas to spark.

Group participation will guide the flow of our time together. In addition, we will enjoy other media in addition to the powerful film Thriving Communities produced on The Fountain Fund in Charlottesville, VA..

You can expect music and poetry to be threaded through our time together to honor senses beyond the brain and the heart.

Questions about the Gathering?

Please reach out to Jerry Millhon.