Origins: Stories of Home

Origins: Stories of Home

What is Origins:

Origins: Stories of Home is a one-week cohort experience that explores American democracy in our local area through powerful storytelling and examples of civic engagement. The program centers ordinary people in our community who have done extraordinary things to expand civil rights, organize change, and shape democracy in the Triad as it is practiced today.

Who should participate?

Origins is open to anyone 18+ who desires to engage local Triad history in a creative way, who wants to see grassroots examples of how social change works, and who wants to build communities with others invested in upholding democracy.  Origins may be particularly beneficial for nonprofit staff and leadership, faith leaders, local policy makers, educators, college students, and those in the creative arts.

Origins is also useful for anyone interested in how change happens at the local level, regardless of background or profession.

What happens at Origins?

Through facilitated dialogue, firsthand stories, and local excursions, participants examine how change actually happens, who has historically been included or excluded, and how individual choices and collective action move communities forward.

Origins will also include visiting select local restaurants to enjoy a meal and fellowship (included in tuition).

What is the desired takeaway of Origins?

Everyone brings their own perspectives and values to this experience — so participants determine their individual takeaways. NCCJ hopes Origins will offer education and encourage increased civic engagement.  Origins will also offer a network of those invested in creating an inclusive, vibrant Triad to continue after the program completes.

Speakers and Special Guests:

Michael Robinson   – former NCCJ Program Director and Origins Facilitator

Vivette Jefferies – Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation

Phyllis Bridges – Washington Street Historic District

Jakki Davis – D-UP in High Point  (Washington Street Historic District)

Natalie Miller – Magnolia House

James Shields – Guilford College

Irving Allen – Greensboro City Council

Paul Ringel – High Point University

Bradford Lilley