What Brings Our Community Together
Through stories and events, we at Thriving Communities see the beauty of connection firsthand. But specifically, what unites us? What elements bind us together to form a strong, cohesive whole?
Similar Vision and Values
Every flourishing community is built around shared values. We all have something to offer, whether it's a dedication to social justice, environmental sustainability, or regenerative farming. Even though we all have different personal interests, we are united by the goal of building a better, more inclusive world. Essentially, what unites us is our shared aspiration for constructive transformation.
The Influence of Teamwork
A genuine community is not created in a vacuum; cooperation is its foundation. Together, we become stronger, push, and learn from one another. In all of our videos and events, we witness changemakers from all locations and backgrounds coming together to exchange ideas and solutions. Whether restoring farmland, bolstering local economies, or producing art that uplifts others, we can have a more significant effect when we work together.
Honoring Diversity
Diversity is just as important as unity. Communities thrive because of the range of viewpoints, ethnicities, and experiences. These distinctions are what give us strength. Every voice adds complexity to a shared path, whether the urban gardener in Detroit sowing the seeds of food sovereignty or the farmer in Iowa reinventing food systems. Even if we travel in different directions, we each head toward a more just and sustainable world.
The Restorative Potential of Human Interaction
Humans are fundamentally social beings. We want connections that support, push, and enable us to develop. We find healing in being together, whether over a meal at a get-together, during a talk on a nature walk, or while seeing a documentary that moves us all deeply. The community truly shines in these open, sympathetic, and supportive times.
Growing, Firm, and Unwavering
As the 2024 Gathering, with the theme "Rising, Rooted, and Resilient," draws near, we are reminded of the true meaning of community. We are rising, rooted, and resilient–just like the regenerative farms that are the subject of our documentaries this year. Together, we are more powerful, and this resiliency keeps us going, particularly during uncertain times.
Our common conviction that, working together, we can create something bigger than ourselves is ultimately what binds us together. You are a part of this vibrant, expanding community whether you work as a farmer, educator, artist, or activist. And we will keep bringing about long-lasting change—one narrative, one discussion, one link at a time—through our combined effort, cooperation, and support.