Just Communities of Arkansas is experiencing a resurgence. Established in 1965 as a field office of the National Conference of Christians & Jews, Just Communities of Arkansas became an independent entity in 2009. Executive Director Hilary Trudell believes the vision remains constant and has simply evolved over time. “We are concentrating on creating cultures of inclusion through the workshops, storytelling opportunities, collaborative community building events, and our youth camp.” Training programs provide resources to churches, corporations and other nonprofit organizations that help cultivate and create meaningful change.
Hilary notes, the new year guarantees lots of activities and opportunities. Our Town for Teens Summer Camp for high school students will be revitalized with new curriculum, which is centered on personal leadership stories and more respect for every individual’s story. “It’s about building bridges; we want to bring young people together from rural communities, cities and different lived experiences. If we start now, we can provide them with the tools to emerge as inclusive and empathetic leaders.”
As part of the organization’s mission to build inclusive and equitable communities through connections and collaborative action, the Humanitarian Awards recognize remarkable service that reflects these values. Later this month – Just Communities of Arkansas will celebrate The Interfaith Center, Second Presbyterian Church of Little Rock, City Year and the Celebrate! Maya Project for a shared commitment to building better communities. With consideration to the 60th anniversary, Hilary explains a shift in perspective. “Most of the time, we honor individuals for their advocacy work. But this year we are honoring organizations who espouse our values. They are incorporating these values into everything they do for our communities, trying to make sure everyone feels welcome and valued. They’re helping cultivate the culture we want to see in our state.” While many organizations qualify, the reoccurring theme for the honorees is how they create accessibility for every Arkansan – regardless of socioeconomics, gender, sexuality or race.
This year, Dr. Chris and Jerrilyn Jones will welcome friends and colleagues to the awards banquet. Proceeds support continued and expanded programming in Central Arkansas including anti-bullying experiences, community outreach and leadership development. Hilary insists that every testimonial illustrates our shared humanity. “Storytelling helps us understand our perspective and that our lived experiences aren’t everyone’s lived experiences. It’s hard to hate someone you know, and the more people feel heard, the more they will listen. The more platforms we can build to make people feel valued and heard, the more spaces we create where everyone feels welcome.”
Just Communities of Arkansas Humanitarian Awards
Thursday, December 5 | Venue @ Westwind