Programs and Initiatives
CPC programs and initiatives are amazing and equitable because they are deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and community empowerment. By adopting a participatory approach, CPC ensures that the voices and experiences of historically underserved individuals and families are at the forefront of their work. This approach fosters genuine community involvement, making sure that programs are tailored to meet the real needs and aspirations of those they serve.
Black Love
Black Love is Black Healing and Black Joy
“As Black people, we need sanctuaries where we can gather, free from the mainstream stereotypes and marginalization that infiltrate every other societal space we inhabit. We need spaces where we can be our full, authentic selves without the weight of white judgment and insecurity stifling our expression. These are spaces where we can simply exist—where we can step off the treadmill of making white people comfortable and finally recognize the depth of our love and togetherness”. Javeline Duncan…
InterCAMBIO
InterCAMBIO is an opportunity for adults and youth to gather and share personal stories in a cultural language exchange between English and Spanish speakers. During the six-week series, we will cover self, history & race, spirituality, food, sexuality & gender, and family & home.
InterCAMBIO, Jr. is a program for youth participants that focuses on literature written by BIPOC authors. It combines literacy and art to explore the same topics as the adults, in an age-friendly manner as a way to encourage parents and children to have meaningful conversations.
Policy Change and Advocacy
The Center for Participatory Change (CPC) engages in policy change and advocacy through a multifaceted approach that emphasizes community cohesion and collaboration. Staff members actively engage in lobbying and advocacy at various governmental levels, meeting with policymakers, providing testimony, and using its social media platforms to inform the public. Additionally, CPC forms strategic partnerships and coalitions, such as with the Poor People’s Campaign, Just Economics of,WNC, GAP AVL, and more, to amplify advocacy efforts and create a united front for change. CPC also focuses on developing community leaders through training interns in advocacy skills, in order to understand the legislative process, as well as inspire individuals to take active roles in driving policy change. Furthermore, CPC supports grassroots movements by providing resources and strategic guidance, ensuring that advocacy efforts are rooted in the community’s needs and voices.
CPC New Gen
Youth Leadership, Engagement, and Mentoring
With Asheville City Schools
CPC New Gen is a program tailored to ignite students by enhancing their skills in civic engagement, public speaking, team building, and social emotional learning (SEL). Our core emphasis centers around healing and bolstering BIPOC visibility to uplift and support students. CPC staff and interns are committed to creating safe and nurturing environments where individuals can thrive and have a sense of belonging. By amplifying BIPOC voices and stories, we aim to dismantle systemic barriers and challenge the narratives that have historically marginalized our communities. We strive to cultivate leaders who will continue to drive positive change and inspire future generations.
We are Showing up and Healing in community
CPC Vendors’ Table at Community Events
During festivals and pop-up shops, staff offers healing on the go. You can create your healing kits, make DIY bath salts, and reconnect to your wholistic self through essential oil rubs and crystal work. Find us at the next outdoor event and get your healing on!
Wilderness Retreat at Lake Eden
CPC Collaborated with LEAF Global and brought 25 community members to stay for the weekend. Camping and attending the LEAF Global retreat for their first time. These are their testimonies
Parents on The Move
School Leadership Program
Coming Soon
Parent Leaders in Schools
Program Overview
An evidenced based model designed to foster collaboration between parents, teachers, and community members to improve student outcomes and strengthen the school community. This program involves paid participation for parents and teachers, offering leadership training and opportunities to work together on school improvement initiatives. It aims to bridge cultural divides and provide positive representation for students of color by having leaders who reflect their own backgrounds within the school community. Additionally, community members will actively participate in the school, enriching the program with diverse perspectives and support.
CPC is Dedicated to Language Justice
CPC believes it’s essential to create multilingual spaces where everyone can participate in community organizing. CPC’s Language Justice Circle provides interpretation training through a social justice lens. LJC also provides gathering spaces for Spanish speakers, youth interpreters, and speakers of native languages to discuss language loss and reclamation, build relationships, and heal together.