Please note the revised date for this event is AUGUST 14TH, 2009.

Water to the Well: Transformational Practices for Social Entrepreneurs and Organizations

Date: Friday, August 14th

Time: 12pm-6:30pm

Location: 201 Thomson Hall
Richardson Memorial Hall (Tulane School of Architecture)
Tulane University 6823 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70118

Registration Required: please register at www.watertothewell.eventbrite.com

Workshop Cost: $25.99 (non-members); $20.99 (SENO dues-paying member)

Workshop Description:

Almost by definition, the work of social change is stressful. And, the complexity of current reality calls for new forms of leadership. Throughout history, effective leaders from all traditions have understood the inextricable links between spirituality and social justice, between individual and social liberation. Transformational practice offers us a profound framework and set of tools to deepen sustainability and effectiveness. This daylong session will introduce practices that can strengthen our capacity to lead, create a deeper well from which to draw, and bring about concrete change on the issues we care about.

We’ll explore four gifts of transformational practice: the ability to understand and hold paradox, how practice deepens sustainability and our capacity for wisdom, how presence can shift the dynamic of any conflict, and how to speak with a voice of truth and compassion. Then we look at our organizational culture: what is the operating metaphor and languages that defines the culture, what sustains and depletes organizational life, where are the strengths and the “edges,” and how specific practices can transform meetings, space, communication, teamwork, planning, and programs.

Claudia Horwitz works at the intersection of practice, community experience, and social change. She founded stone circles in 1995. Her previous work includes developing youth leadership, supporting struggles for economic justice, and strengthening social change organizations. Claudia practices walking a yogic path of awareness, on and off the mat. She lives on the land at The Stone House in Mebane, NC with her dog, Zak.