Community Summit

This August 23rd Pensacola Habitat for Humanity will present the third annual Community Summit at the Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center. The event, which is presented in partnership with Race and Reconciliation, UWF Inclusion Spotlight, and a Pensacola Interfaith Initiative, is intended to spur thoughtful discussion on issues of compassion and acceptance, and consequently, meaningful action, that will foster the development of a compassionate community. It is free to the public, and all who are interested in the cause are encouraged to attend to lend their experience and viewpoint. Beginning at 1 p.m. on August 23rd at Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Resource Center, 913 S I Street, the keynote speaker, Caren Goldman, Executive Director and co-founder of Compassionate St. Augustine and author, will begin the discussion of building a community centered on compassion and reconciliation to counter current trends of divisiveness. Caren will be joined for comments by her husband, Rev. Ted Voorhees, vicar of St. Cyprians Episcopal Church in St. Augustine and the partnering founder of Compassionate St. Augustine. Panelists will provide personal and professional insight into identifying origins and influences of divisions in our community, be they political, economic, racial, faith based, or cultural. They will lead discussions about building partnerships through uncomfortable conversations and difficult circumstances, and will talk creatively about finding ways to build experiences of intentional unity and understanding. Our first panelist will be Dr. Karen Barber, Director of Federal Programs for Santa Rosa School District. With over 30 years in public education, she will share her experiences working with families of diverse economic backgrounds and provide insights into developing a sensitivity and greater awareness of the differences related to economic status, race, ethnicity, political, cultural and other differences. The next panelist will be Dr. Keya Wiggins, Licensed Psychologist and Certified Group Psychotherapist. In addition to her local practice, Dr. Wiggins is also an Instructor and Psychologist at the University of West Florida. Dr. Wiggins will utilize her relationship expertise to discuss the importance of engaging in uncomfortable or awkward conversations that can help to facilitate understanding between seemingly oppositional audiences. Our last presenter will be Rabbi Joel Fleekop of Temple Beth-El who brings a wealth of community organizing experience. Rabbi Fleekop will speak to the importance of intentionality in structuring an inclusive community. Round table discussions and interactive activity will expand each panel member's discussion. Sue Straughn, WEAR News Anchor, will serve as the Summit's moderator. Space is limited. To register and ensure your spot please visit www.pensacolahabitat.org/invite.