Urban Core Collective

Last week, we welcomed and hosted trainees for our train-the-trainer/train-the-organizer workshop for Phase 2 of "The COFI Way," Community Outreach & Action! Participants built organizing skills around relationship-building through one-on-ones, community outreach, choosing a campaign issue, and more. On Day 2 of training, they visited Parker Community Academy in Englewood to meet Parent Leaders and practice their door-knocking and outreach skills! Thank you to all our participants from: ?? Hawaii Children's Action Network ?? La Rabida Children's Hospital ?? Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE) / Youth Mental Health Systems of Care at Rosecrance Behavioral Health ?? United Parent Leaders Action Network (UPLAN) ?? Urban Core Collective Learn more about our trainings and the COFI Center for Action and Learning here: https://lnkd.in/gE3q6-CU

Today, we showed up for Education Justice! The National Education Association, the largest teacher's union in the U.S., put out a call for its members, including those at the state and local levels, to participate in a walk-in this morning. Teachers and community members were invited to gather outside of school buildings before the day began to show lawmakers that we were unwilling to support cuts to public education funding. Our message: We need to protect our schools! Members of SALT and our Education Justice team were present at Union High School and Burton Elementary this morning to stand in solidarity with teachers and organizers. Check out this news article for more information: https://lnkd.in/genwPR2f If you are concerned about public education funding, consider attending our Education Town Hall on April 16. Find the details here: https://lnkd.in/gEkvtGuz

Get the answers to these everyday questions by joining us for a field trip to the Wyoming Water Treatment Plant! This facility provides clean water for over 200,000 people, and now you get to see how it works! Sign up today: https://lnkd.in/gVUTnrRw

Don’t miss out on The People’s Game Night—happening THIS Thursday, March 20th from 6–7:30 PM! ?? Grab your crew, test your civic knowledge, and compete for prizes while learning about the local leaders who shape our community! RSVP now: https://lnkd.in/gDpNjfyw

Join us this week for a powerful, hands-on workshop where we’ll explore who’s funding our elections and what that means for our community. We’ll be diving into real campaign finance data and learning how donations impact elections. Plus, dinner is on us! We hope to see you there! Event details: https://lnkd.in/gBRq3A4h

In January and February, the UCC Book Club gathered to discuss Emergent Strategy by adrienne maree brown. This book invites us to rethink our approach to organizing, leadership, and community building. Read our latest blog post that reflects on these key themes. Link to blog: https://lnkd.in/gJyTyBHQ

Join us for the March UCC Book Club meeting! During the meeting, we’ll discuss how the book connects to personal growth, community organizing, and collective empowerment. ?? This Month’s Book: “Let This Radicalize You: Organizing and the Revolution of Reciprocal Care” by Kelly E. Hayes and Mariame Kaba ??? When: Sunday, March 30, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM ?? Where: UCC Office, 413 Hall St SE #1, Grand Rapids, MI 49507 What to Expect: - Explore the book—whether it’s a chapter, a few pages, or the whole thing! - Engage in meaningful discussions with fellow community members. - Share insights and takeaways to inspire action in your life and community. Sign Up Here: https://lnkd.in/g7asR9tz

Ever wondered how our water stays clean and safe? ?? Join us for Everyday People Explore Public Systems as we take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Wyoming Water Treatment Plant! Learn how water flows from the lake to your home and how it gets treated! This event is open to all ages 12 and up—don’t miss this opportunity to learn about a system we use every day! Learn more and sign up: https://lnkd.in/gVUTnrRw

Mark your calendars! ?? The People’s Game Night is an evening of fun, food, and friendly competition where you’ll learn about your local leaders and government in the most exciting way possible! What’s in store? ? Trivia & games about local government ? Free food ? A chance to connect with your community RSVP now: https://lnkd.in/gDpNjfyw

Today is the last day to register for a Parent Cafe for Black parents and caregivers. Meet other parents and caregivers who can relate to the challenges and joys of raising children, and talk about your experiences and lessons learned along the way. Learn more and RSVP at https://lnkd.in/gcue8PwS ?? Find the link in our bio!