On January 26, 2019, Embracing Diversity (a non-profit committed to helping immigrants find self-sufficiency and significance through education and counsel) hosted a collaborative discussion with organizations and individuals from across Mississippi. The discussion focused on immigration services within the state. The Joseph Factor Group was there leading the facilitation. The event entitled, “Let’s Get Connected, Mississippi!” hosted over 20 organizations and interested individuals from the legal, education, and business fields to discuss serving the international community. What a powerful discussion as everyone talked about their experiences, shared their capabilities, and explored opportunities. Ravin Cline, Embracing Diversity’s Executive Director and the event’s host, shares “We are blessed to know so many people who work tirelessly, who want to connect Mississippi, who understand that this state has so much to offer, and who are willing to leverage our assets to serve our community.” During lunch, Kutenia Good (luncheon speaker with Working Together Jackson) worked with the group, helping them to get to know one another and encouraging them to continue to embrace diversity in its many forms. “The Joseph Factor Group is willing to enter into these spaces to serve and lend our expertise to realize collaboration”, remarks Anthony D. Bobo, Jr., Senior Associate, The Joseph Factor Group. He continues, “Using G.P.S. to guide discussions on immigration services in communities all around Mississippi, putting aside individual agendas, and focusing on the whole to see great things accomplished was so rewarding. While this discussion was just a start, it reveals the strengths in the community and the desire to serve those from distant lands who are our neighbors.” Anthony is right. There are several next steps that were outlined, including a summary report of ideas and opportunities, outreach to other interested organizations and individuals, and continued communication among participants. One of the most moving moments occurred when one of the international students stood towards the end of the event. With tears in her eyes she expressed gratitude to everyone in the room. She said that many times she feels like she is unwanted in this country and that no one cares, but at this event, she saw this is not the case. The Joseph Factor Group’s “G.P.S.” is proving to be an effective assessment tool in guiding, building, and leading communities as they strive to better our world. What a way to realize the needs of others and to find ways to address those needs! |
