Builders for Social Justice

This new seven-month grant-supported training program is for those who want to help build a caring, inclusive, and thriving world. With the support of an ongoing learning community, you will be equipped to “be the change you seek” as you discern your particular call to make a difference advocating for truth, justice and peace to nourish our communities.

Themes that will be explored include:

• What is social justice?
• What are principles for justice in the major faith traditions?
• Who am I: my values, purpose, passion, and particular calling?
• What are significant local issues that need to be addressed?
• How do we make a collective witness through non-violent action and communication?
• How do we envision the future, frame an issue, and map community assets?
• How do we attend to dynamics of power and influence?
• How do we sustain courage of compassion, conviction, and creativity to serve others joyfully?

The training will include presentations, small group reflection, readings, and field engagement. The program’s primary audience is adults in their 20s or 30s and the young at heart who reside in the Greater Racine community. Applications will be accepted until October 30, 2026, with selection for the limited number of spots by November 23, 2026.

Program Commitment

Participation in the Builders program will require significant time commitment including the mandatory 3-day retreat in January, monthly Saturday sessions, and participation in a team project that may have hours outside of the Saturday session.

Builders program reserves the right to dismiss any participant from the program who misses more than 12 hours of session time. Attendance will be tracked. Missing any portions of the program heavily impacts your experience in the Builders learning. Being fully engaged and actively participating throughout the year provides you with the best experience.

Please consider your availability with the dates listed for the program if you should be selected to be in the program.

By submitting this application, you certify that you understand the purpose of the Builders for Social Justice program and, if selected, will devote the time to actively participate and complete the program.