Leadership Visalia partners with The Brave Project on community project

By Victoria Balderas, CSET

The Leadership Visalia cohort class of 2023-2024 has chosen The Brave Project as its focal point, embodying our commitment to fostering collaboration and teamwork within the community. Comprising a diverse group of 12 individuals from various organizations in Tulare County, including Melissa Lopez, Petra Gaytan, Kurt Hardcastle, Tiffany Garcia, Adriana Soto, Maria Rodriguez Ornelas, Joe Iniguez, Daniel Alcaraz, Robert Meier, Dave Byl, Victoria Balderas, and Ty Stelow, we are united in our endeavor to effect positive change. Each member brings unique ideas, passions, and expertise to the table, collectively raising the bar not only for ourselves but also for future cohorts.

For over 12 years, The Brave Project has stood as a symbol of resilience and dedication within our community. Since the inception of our class, this project has captured our collective attention and ignited our passion. Guided by our Class Facilitator, Jena Rodriguez, we've been encouraged to think innovatively and push beyond our comfort zones. The decision to embrace this endeavor was unanimous, fueled by our shared desire to make a meaningful impact.

Jena Rodriguez, our dedicated Class Facilitator, has provided us with the freedom to think creatively and step outside conventional boundaries. With her guidance, we've explored innovative approaches and strategies, allowing us to maximize our potential and drive positive change within the community. This collaborative spirit has empowered us to overcome challenges and make significant strides towards our shared goal.

As we continue our journey with The Brave Project, we are fueled by a shared commitment to making a difference and leaving a lasting impact. With each member contributing their unique skills and perspectives, we are confident in our ability to achieve our objectives and set a high standard for future cohorts. Together, we are harnessing the power of collaboration and teamwork to create positive change and build a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come.

With the selection of our project being The Brave Project we have had the privilege of working alongside Dustin Cole, the Executive Director, who helps fill our efforts with a profound sense of purpose. His personal connection to the project adds depth and significance, driving our determination to effect positive change and awareness of what we have right here in the City of Visalia. The task of enhancing the project and amplifying its impact felt natural, guided by a shared vision and unwavering dedication.

Over the course of nine months, we have diligently worked towards our shared goal, encouraged by the imminent culmination of our efforts. As graduation approaches, the anticipation mounts, fueling our excitement to witness the tangible results of our labor and to galvanize greater community involvement.

Our strategy has been multi-faceted, encompassing various initiatives aimed at bolstering the brave project’s visibility and support base. Leveraging social media platforms, we have amplified Dustin’s reach and garnered increased awareness within the community. By sharing emotional family stories online, we have fostered a sense of connection and empathy, inviting others to join our cause.

Moreover, our efforts have extended to securing additional funding through donor outreach, ensuring the project’s sustainability and growth. Concurrently, we have sought to elevate the narratives of those who have served our country, honoring their sacrifices and contributions to our collective heritage.

The finale of our endeavors will be celebrated during The Brave Project - Celebration Event on Saturday, May 18th, at Bello Vita from 8:30 am – 10:30 am. This gathering serves as a tribute to the families whose banners beautify the city streets, as well as a testament to our collective commitment to honoring their legacies. Through this event, we aim to foster a sense of community pride and unity, highlighting the enduring significance of the Brave project.

Throughout our journey, the heart of Leadership Visalia has been characterized by our collective growth and mutual support. As we prepare to transition from participants to alumni, the impact of our collective endeavor echoes far beyond the confines of our class. Our legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and collaboration, exemplifying the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. With hearts full of pride and anticipation, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the ongoing evolution of The Brave Project.