Sheridan Rising Together for Equity

In towns across the country, community is fading. Institutions are inaccessible to many, youth are disenfranchised, and there is little sense of belonging or connection. When we began our work, community members told us Sheridan lacks social and community cohesion, and youth lack a sense of belonging and options for the future.

Today in Sheridan, families and residents are working hard to find their voice, connect with their neighbors, and create meaningful community events for a more connected Sheridan. Building a better community doesn’t happen overnight, but together we can create lasting change. Sheridan Rising Together for Equity (SRTFE) envisions a future where residents are not passive recipients of services, they are leaders, decision-makers, and agents of change in their community. 

Since 2016, we have conducted hundreds of community conversations and focus groups to identify the unique challenges Sheridan faces. Our work is community created and directed. 

Our Approach: 

Youth Inequities: 

SRTFE’s Youth Committee addresses feelings of isolation by involving youth in the decision-making process and providing programming designed for building resiliency. Youth plan and organize professional development trainings, college/career prep courses, and civic engagement opportunities. As they work together, they can cultivate healthy, supportive relationships with their peers and members of the community at large.

Community Engagement:

Residents tell us they feel isolated and alone. SRTFE centers on a future with accessible events for residents of all ages, like our Summer Kick-Off and Día De Los Muertos celebrations. We also provide skills-based classes for community members to grow their skills and provide opportunities for their family.

 

Institutional Accessibility:

With 26% of Sheridan residents speaking a language other than English, language differences can act as a barrier to community participation. This means that key decision making is done without the voice of the people. SRTFE works with local instructions to ensure our residents can access services in their native language to actively engage in their community. 

We believe that those closest to the issues are also closest to the solutions. That’s why we center community voices in everything we do. By listening to our residents we’ve seen a clear impact, from community members running for school board to higher levels of community cohesion and residents with a greater hope for Sheridan’s future.   

Our solution is to build a Sheridan where every family belongs. SRTFE’s work is designed for and by community members and since 2016, we have used resident input and feedback to create better outcomes for our town. 

We can accomplish more together! By supporting SRTFE, you are empowering Sheridan families to thrive.