A study done by the United Way of Northern California has resulted in some interesting findings. The “Building Bridges” Initiative was launched in Fall of 2024, and invited people to engage in listening sessions to try to promote a culture of civility, respect and inclusion in Shasta County. In order to encourage open and free expression among participants, the sessions were not recorded in any way. There were more than 29 small group sessions held last year including more than 330 community members. The United Way of Northern California facilitated the program in partnership with 11 other local organizations. Observers found, as they expected, a lot of impressions that the community is divided and stratified along political and cultural differences. What they say they didn’t expect was a surprising groundswell of optimism and desire for solutions among younger people, especially teenagers. The report can be seen at norcalunitedway.org.
-Steve Gibson