Community Building
In July 2023, the Intrepid Philanthropy Foundation hosted its tenth annual Awardee Convening honoring recent recipients of the LIGHT Awards grant. Awardees from the tenth cohort were invited to this event, which seeks to honor educators and cultivate connections within and across LIGHT teams, as well as energize the participants as they launch their projects. An inspiring group of nearly 35 teachers representing 8 projects attended this 2-day meeting at Seascape Beach Resort in Aptos, along with the Intrepid Philanthropy Foundation team. Intrepid Philanthropy Foundation President and Founder Karen Leshner encouraged attendees to take vulnerable and courageous efforts to connect with one another and celebrate their accomplishments.
The Story of Self and Us
As part of the professional learning portion of this year’s Convening, Rosi Greenberg from Drawn to Lead facilitated sessions on public narratives. In the sessions, attendees reflected on the power of storytelling and had opportunities to craft their own “Stories of Self,” asking the question “What are you called to create in the world?” Rosi described powerful stories as having elements tied to recognizable emotions, vivid and detailed moments, and a clear structure. As educators, Rosi stressed how words have the power to captivate both students and colleagues to inspire them to action. She also shared how, through telling powerful stories, attendees and their project teams could empower others to walk alongside them and learn together.
Team Building
Intrepid Advisory Board Members Jen Bloom, Jenny Maehara and Paula Mitchell also facilitated sessions for the educators, providing space to connect and share their project goals and dreams. Jenny led a thought-provoking session on Core Values, tying this conversation to how these values reflect in their team and larger work. Paula led participants in a sand sculpture activity on the beach that inspired playful creativity. Jen and Jenny shared a Talent Mapping activity to help teams discover individual strengths and talents and how this knowledge might contribute to team dynamics. LIGHT Awards Alumni George Ellis also shared tools and ideas from his experience with his project.
Visioning Poster
Favorite Moments
Each summer, LIGHT Awards grant recipients are invited to a Convening like this one. Below, you can see some favorite moments from this year’s gathering. (click to enlarge)
