The Cohort members have really hit the ground running at the beginning of this year, putting more work into action with their various projects including facilitation tenant rights trainings, supporting local tenant associations, and building out organizational capacity to begin tenant support programs. In January, the VISTA Cohort completed their third training share experience with four other VISTA Cohorts in the area, this time attending ‘Beginning Grantwriting,’ facilitated by Minnesota Council of Nonprofits.
- Lucid: My January highlight was door knocking at Union Flats and getting to practice my Somali greeting, “As-salamu Alakyum.” Ramia said I improved dramatically.
- Colton: In January I got to set up and co lead a know your rights training. This training taught residents at the manufactured home park I’m working at their rights regarding their housing. It was a valuable experience to research slides, execute a presentation with that information, and connect with residents afterwards. I really felt at this point like I was actually being a good organizer. From this experience I felt like I’ve grown and had more confidence in myself in organizing.
- Isa: Getting back into the groove with European Descent/Dissent is really exciting as we are beginning to collaborate efforts for future community events. It’s got me motivated and looking forward to what’s next. In addition, attending the Jewish Community Action ‘Combating Hate’ series was very helpful.
- Hannah: My January highlight was planning out the year and preparing for PWNO’s Winter Social!
- Ramia: The highlights of my VISTA service in December and January were the opportunities to interact with exceptional individuals and participate in in-person training sessions in Dallas, where I gained valuable insights into key tools and resources that facilitated the establishment of connections with extraordinary individuals. The dedication and commitment of everyone who was able to attend the valuable in-person training in Dallas is truly inspirational. I thank everyone who participated for demonstrating the change we want to see in ourselves, our community, and those we care about. I am grateful to have met Jennavie, a fellow cohort member whose profound wisdom and insightful observations have given me hope, direction, and inspiration to drive positive change.
- Austin: My highlight for the month of January was attending the final two webinars hosted by Housing Narrative Lab and MHP to discuss the narrative change project. It was exciting to see the work come together and be able to share the completed messaging guide.
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