What is race? How has the idea of race influenced society? Explore the concept of race as a social construct, the legacy of racism in Memphis, how institutional racism functions in our society today and how it can be pro-actively defeated. You’ll experience hands-on activities to help you think critically, not only about racism in the past, but also how it affects each of us now. Develop and share solutions you and your group can act on to learn how you can take a stand for racial justice in your community. 

What role do you play in creating a safe, pleasant environment for your family, your neighborhood and the greater Memphis community? Take a virtual trek through Memphis and explore how environmental benefits and burdens impact people and their communities differently. You’ll have to think outside the box as you work with your team to understand local environmental issues and their environmental responsibilities we share as citizens of Memphis. 

How has the economy shaped Memphis’ history and how does that affect us today? Explore the ideas of cooperation vs. competition and how the distribution of wealth creates different life chances. You’ll learn how community strengths and assets can be utilized to create positive community development in Memphis—one of the poorest communities in the nation. Equipped with new ideas and personal commitments, participants will share how they can work together within their communities to create a wealthier Memphis for all. 

Pencils out—it’s time to get schooled on education. With Memphis as the backdrop, you’ll explore the purpose of school, the history of public education and how the past and current struggles for educational justice impact our community today. By exploring the role of students in school reform and how youth can work to improve school culture, you’ll work together to build a vision for education in our community. 

Ever wonder what you can do to improve your community? Explore and activate the strengths in yourself and in your neighborhood to create positive change. Learn what residents in Memphis have been doing to improve their community and bring their neighbors closer together. Engage in a sequence of experiential activities and discussions that promote diversity appreciation and effective communication to empower you and show you how to work together to advance justice in your communities. 

Discover your strengths and values, and explore your leadership potential through teamwork. Learn about leaders internationally and in Memphis who have stood up to advance justice and how you can too. Hands-on activities will help you build your leadership potential and give you experience on how to put leadership into action. You’ll envision how you can become a leader for positive change in your community NOW!