Programs

   

There is in us an instinct for newness, for renewal, for a liberation of creative power. We seek to awaken in ourselves a force that changes our lives from within. And the same instinct tells us that this change is a recovery of that which is deepest, most original, most personal in ourselves.

– Thomas Merton

Real change starts within

Adults learn best when learning is voluntary, and occurs with others over time. Consequently our signature programs are Courage to Lead ®, a series of quarterly retreats offered to individuals from various professions and Courage to Teach ®, a series offered to educators – teachers, counselors and administrators.

Participants in our multi-session series develop clarity and deeper commitment to their vocation, and strengthen internal resources to engage effectively in challenging work over the long haul.

Changed people change organizations

Personal change experienced by the participant leads to organizational or systems transformation – one person at a time. Teachers connect more effectively with students and colleagues, doctors see patients as individuals rather than an ailing arm or weakened heart; non profit leaders ensure that the values of the organization are seen in the services provided. Schools, institutions and communities change because individuals within them are working with courage.

Personal & Professional Renewal Retreats

Our personal and professional renewal offerings are based upon Parker J. Palmer’s concept of the Circles of Trust ®. We offer opportunities for you to reconnect who you are with what you do by providing a trustworthy place to explore the important questions of life and work.

Circles of trust are offered in a variety of formats to meet the needs of busy individuals. Twenty to thirty people gather for retreat – like sessions that vary from a one day retreat to a series of five residential retreats held over 18 months. Activities include individual time for reflection as well as small and large group conversation. Work and personal experiences, biographies, metaphor, poetry and stories provide the stimulation for reflection and dialogue

Courage in the Workplace

We offer on-site renewal opportunities custom crafted to address the particular needs of a work team. Over the years we have worked with dozens of organizations, schools, and communities in on-site retreats, off-site retreats, and conferences. Along with Courage to Lead ® and Courage to Teach ® retreat series, our renewal programs can be tailored to meet the needs of any number of participants from small groups to large gatherings. For a list of our Courage in Workplace facilitators click here and scroll down to bottom of the page. Popular topics include: (Please click on each topic for detailed information.)

  • Change: Opportunity in the Inevitable
  • Leading with Integrity
  • Restoring Heart of Service
  • Taking Time for Trust
  • Thriving in Complexity

    Collaborative Projects

    • We often work with other partner organizations and institutions to offer renewal offerings to particular groups in the community – together providing a service that none of us could offer on our own.

    Annual Community Day of Leadership Event

    Each year we invite the community to gather for a leadership development opportunity that strengthens the connection between who we are and the work that we do in the world. Hundreds of leaders from across the metroplex participate in this annual event.