Spiritual Activist Leadership Training

Due to low enrollment, this program is not moving forward. If you have questions or would like further information, please contact us at info@uucsj.org.

UUCSJ is excited to partner with UU Mass Action toUnknown-2 launch the Spiritual Activist Leadership Training (SALT) program in Massachusetts. The mission of SALT is to empower young adults to cultivate peace and justice through faith-based relationship building, action, and reflection, grounded in Unitarian Universalist values. This six-month program, beginning in early 2015, is designed for young adults who are in their 20s and early 30s.

Participants will develop social change projects within their own communities while receiving ongoing training and mentorship, through a mix of weekend intensive trainings, regular Internet and phone contact, and readings and spiritual practices.

SALT is modeled after a successful program pioneered by the UU Justice Ministry of California. We look forward to offering young adults this opportunity to focus on justice issues in Massachusetts!

Help us spread the word! You can download a flyer with our general youth program information here.

Contact us with questions about SALT.

Structure and Logistics

SALT is a six-month program, taking place from January to June, 2015. Participants will attend four weekend intensives (Friday—Sunday) where activities will include:

  • Skill building workshops on topics such as non-violent communication and mission-based fundraising
  • Hands-on experience with UU Mass Action partner organizations, including Centro Presente in the Boston area and EPOCA in Worcester
  • Reflecting together on the challenges and revelations of developing new capacities to be a powerful force for change

During the interludes between intensives, participants will spend time each week doing curricular readings and having peer contact for discussion and support. Each participant will also research, develop and execute social justice projects in their home community.

Throughout the program, participants will also have periodic group video chats, and will receive ongoing support from mentors, staff at UU Mass Action and UUCSJ, and a SALT chaplain.

Eligibility and Application

SALT is open to young adults (people in their 20s and 30s) who currently live in Massachusetts and who are able to attend weekend intensives. The locations are: Ferry Beach in Saco, ME; Senexet House in Woodstock, CT; and the Walker Center in Auburndale, MA. Participants are expected to have some past experience with social justice work, and be committed to learning and growing as social change leaders. SALT is open to anyone who is interested in deepening their spirituality and who identifies with Unitarian Universalist values.

To receive top consideration, submit your application by the priority deadline of September 28, 2014.

Cost

Tuition for this program is $1,750. Participants will also be given support and training to fundraise an additional $250 over the course of the program.

Tuition covers lodging, food and programming for four weekend intensives; curricular materials; and ongoing support by program leaders and chaplains. This cost does not include the cost of transportation to and from the sites of weekend intensives, or other incidental expenses.

Financial aid is available by application for those with demonstrated financial need. Be sure to fill out the relevant questions on the application if you would like to be considered for aid. All financial aid is contingent on the availability of funding and is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Heather Vickery is responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with UU congregations, State Action Networks, past UU College of Social Justice (UUCSJ) program participants, and regional staff in order to expand engagement in UUSC and UUCSJ’s work. As the Coordinator for Congregational Activism, she manages the workshop offerings and group visits to the UUSC/UUCSJ office and assists with communications for the Activism and Justice Education Team. Heather is an active member of the Boston Immigration Justice Accompaniment Network and a dedicated dog-mom to her rescue puppy Nova.

Heather may be contacted at hvickery@uucsj.org and 617-301-4303