Empowered to Impact Dreams: The Dreamkeepers Find Direction at SENT Seminar 2020
Constance Folsom
Lao Tzu, a Chinese philosopher and writer, once stated, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” As a new member to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), I am thankful to have had the opportunity to participate in the 2020 SENT Seminar with the National Benevolent Association. The SENT Seminar helped me to move forward with my project, The Dreamkeepers, in the areas of vision and operations.
After working with several community and national social justice organizations, I became frustrated with what seemed like a lack of consistency in the areas of advocacy, activism, and reconciliation work. My vision is to create a long-term viable organization that provides consistent advocacy and activism for disadvantaged, discriminated, and divided communities so that communities are empowered to thrive, thus creating thriving cities, states, and a nation.
Before the SENT Seminar, I was struggling with what type of organization I was creating, who my target market was, and how I was going to build a supportive network around me that would serve as a guide during the formation years. Now, after attending the SENT seminar, I have no doubt in mind that such support actually exists. The SENT sessions were amazingly detailed with a vision for all communities, yet intimate enough to provide practical tools for doing organizational work. I look forward to moving confidently into operational details such as branding and fundraising.
SENT Seminar introduced me to powerful leaders that offered education and resources that will provide a huge impact on the formation of The Dreamkeepers. I am so excited about having the opportunity to work with the NBA knowing that my organization will be undergirded with support.
The work of the NBA and the SENT Seminar is a powerful expression of compassion and care for communities all over the nation. I’ve never seen anything like it! The SENT Seminar has helped The Dreamkeepers set sail at the Shiloh Mission & Ministry Center at Amplify Christian Church. I am thankful to Rev. Orlando Scott for inviting my organization, to be housed and partnered with his church in Snellville, Georgia.
The Dreamkeepers have set sail with SENT!
As the health and social services general ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the National Benevolent Association partners with congregations, regions, general ministries, and a variety of Disciples-related health and social service providers to create communities of compassion and care. Founded in 1887 by six women responding to the needs of the day and on their doorsteps, for more than 130 years the NBA has continued to serve “the least of these.” Learn more at www.nbacares.org.
