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Success Stories

College Possible

The Subtle Strength in Holding Safe Space
An education
non-profit needed support healing from grief and isolation following the events of 2020.

Client Background

Founded in 2000, College Possible is a Twin Cities-based non-profit that empowers low-income students to achieve college admission and success through intensive coaching and support programs.
Industry: Education, Non-profit
Project Duration: 6 months
Solutions: Facilitated dialog sessions, team-building exercises

The Challenge

College Possible's diverse workforce experienced significant emotional distress due to George Floyd's shooting in May 2020, compounded by COVID-19 isolation. The organization needed to address grief, promote connection, and facilitate safe, brave dialog among staff members.
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Addressing grief

College Possible faced challenges in addressing staff trauma following George Floyd's shooting and COVID-19 isolation.

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Promoting connection

The COVID-19 outbreak meant that few individuals were working in the office, compounding the sense of grief.

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Facilitating dialog

Despite paid time off and access to coaching resources, it was clear that safe, brave dialog was needed.

Our Approach

  • Facilitated Separate Dialog Sessions: Conducted distinct sessions for white and BIPOC staff members to promote open communication and healing.
  • Established Ground Rules: Created guidelines to encourage listening, empathy, and respectful sharing of feelings without personal agendas.
  • Maintained a Safe Space: Facilitators ensured a supportive environment for brave and authentic discussions, allowing everyone to participate comfortably.
  • Focused on Supportive Dialog:
Encouraged staff to share experiences, ask questions, and seek advice on how to support non-white colleagues effectively.
  • Promoted High Participation: Achieved significant voluntary attendance, fostering a collective sense of understanding and trust among all employees.

Coaching Outcomes

See how coaching helped the College Possible team grow and overcome challenges.
Outcome 1 Image

Enhanced Emotional
Healing

The dialog sessions facilitated a supportive environment where staff members felt less isolated, allowing them to process their emotions and experiences collectively.

Outcome 2 Image

Increased Confidence in Conversations

Employees gained the skills and confidence to engage in sensitive discussions about race and support their colleagues of color, fostering deeper connections.

Outcome 3 Image

Strengthened Trust and
Team Dynamics

The open and honest conversations built trust among staff members, improving overall team dynamics and collaboration within the organization.