Bridges of Introduction for 2026
Long before identifying as a writer, I considered myself to be a bridge builder. It was gratifying to connect people with other individuals and organizations with whom they shared common interests. While I am an introvert at my core, I am grateful for the experiences, people and organizations enriching my life. Having grown up in Dothan, Alabama, as a Catholic in a Black, female, heterosexual and cisgender body, I was curious about other places, and hungry for organizations committed to other narratives.
As a high school student, I learned of SEARCH for Christian Maturity retreats when Sister Elizabeth Leiwe, CSJ, the director of youth ministry for the archdiocese, came to Dothan to recruit teens for the first retreat in the Archdiocese of Mobile. This was a pivotal experience for me and I worked on retreat teams until completing high school. In my last summer as an undergraduate, I volunteered for Operation PUSH as it was hosting its national conference in New Orleans where I was a student.
Over the last three decades, I have had unimaginable experiences for which I am for ever grateful, organizations committed to hearing and sharing other narratives. To begin the new year, I retrieved my bridge builder hat and compiled a diverse list of programs and organizations for you to explore and ponder. It is only a partial list, but there is enough variety that some may resonate within you or align with your interests. From intriguing teachers to writing and speaking opportunities to board service, the little colored girl from Dothan is in awe and grateful to share this with you. Peace.