What Makes UCM Training Different?

Learning from others is at the core of how we organize, and on March 21st, UCM created a space to examine if we are really learning from the teachers around us. Building Power Together: this was a regional training in collaboration with other Gamaliel affiliates. We have the opportunity to send leaders and staff to Gamaliel for training in faith-based organizing at various occasions throughout the year. This is at the core of how UCM operates.

UCM is an interfaith organization with multiple backgrounds and value sets, and as I learn more about the Jesuit reflection of The Daily Examen, it is the returning to the training room that provides an annual examination of my community organizing.  

UCM brought three people to this year's NLT session in Nashville, TN on March 1st. As a Gamaliel professional organizer, I attend Trainer of Trainers during National Leadership Training annually. I was able to bring that experience back to our region to share.

During Building Power Together, we reflected on how the right team creates real change. These people must be experienced and deeply rooted in the communities we value. Experience and wisdom is not always academic, but it can be lived knowledge and relevance.  

Our spiritual practices may provide us with a place to reflect and make change personally, but leaders and organizations should have a place to reflect on their community organizing efforts. A place where we can reflect on what might need to change about ourselves so WE can make systematic changes for justice. 

The next Regional Community Organizing Training will be in Springfield, IL in June. If you are interested in attending, please contact your cluster organizer to learn more.

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