SideBar: Optimism In Action - Conversations with Community Leaders Inspiring Positive Change

The Central Coast of California is one of the most spectacular regions in the world. But our sense of imagination for what is possible faces growing challenges. Today, too many families cannot cover the cost of housing. Many of our workforce must commute long distances because they cannot afford to live here. At the same time, the lack of a reliable water supply and strict environmental regulations add to both our housing shortage and our homeless crisis. While these challenges may seem overwhelming, local leaders have no choice but to face these challenges head-on to identify and implement solutions.

As Americans wrestle with questions of election integrity and democracy's future, the book Stealing Elections, American Style reveals how today's challenges are deeply rooted in history. Drawing on decades of litigating election cases and arguing before the Supreme Court, author David Walbert combines gripping stories of stolen elections with a clear explanation of how elections are routinely rigged before a single vote is cast.

The Center for Inclusive Democracy is a nonpartisan research center founded and directed by Dr. Mindy Romero. CID conducts national and multi-state research initiatives exploring voting behavior, civic engagement, and electoral and economic research. CID believes that inclusive civic and political participation is critical in addressing disparities in social and economic well-being, and can improve health, education, and employment outcomes.
 

Urban Alchemy knows the skills and energy of people who were once incarcerated can transform people and places through love and respect. When individuals in a community are suffering, Urban Alchemy offers solutions. When a neighborhood, street, or intersection earns a reputation as a place to avoid, they turn it into a place of community. Urban Alchemy provides services and engagement that create a peaceful and supportive presence, helping communities rebuild a sense of pride one person at a time. They have helped tens of thousands of people while creating thousands of good-paying jobs with a career path for returning citizens.

For nearly 60 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) has been a vital part of our community, empowering thousands of children and teens through life-changing programs, mentorship, and support. Today, BGCMC continues that mission by providing Award-Winning programs to hundreds of local youth daily.
 
 

The Can't Win Victory Fund helps "cant-idates" run for office in gerrymandered, unwinnable districts. Why? Because the organization believes that we deserve competitive elections that hold our leaders accountable. The organization recruits, trains, and supports candidates who show up, tell the truth, and build trust in communities that feel like their voice no longer counts. In the last election cycle, they supported over 60 "cant-idates" in state-wide elections. The Can't Win Victory Fund builds social networks and makes politics fun. Their long-term success is that the communities they foster keep working together long after the election.

Teddy Bears with Heart has gifted over 350,000 stuffed animals to help first responders assist children in crisis. In addition, the organization provides nine hospitals and more than 150 agencies with stuffed animals to comfort those in need. They also sponsor the "Share a Bear Because You Care" program through which supporters can purchase small teddy bears from Teddy Bears With Heart and personally share them with people they encounter in everyday life — a neighbor, a senior, a child having a tough day, a first responder, or someone who just needs a moment of comfort.
 

Richard Walden is the founder, President, and CEO of Operation USA, a Los Angeles-based international disaster relief and development agency helping communities at home and abroad overcome the effects of disasters, disease, violence, and endemic poverty. Since 1979, Operation USA has worked in 101 countries—delivering over $450 million in aid for relief and development projects around the world.

Katherine Grainger, co-author of the NY gay marriage law, champion of groundbreaking work to enshrine gender protections in state constitutions across the country, and Managing Partner of Civitas Public Affairs Group, joins guest cohost Vanessa Priya Daniel and Mitch Winick. She ignites our imaginations about what true gender equality could look and feel like in our daily lives, and how we achieve it. With 25 years of policy, legal, and advocacy experience, Katherine Grainger is a unique thought leader challenging cultural and system norms towards a freer future. 
 

Sarabeth Berman, CEO of the nonprofit American Journalism Project, reminds us that local journalism keeps communities informed and holds the powerful accountable. Equally important, it is the key to an informed citizenry and provides the tools to safeguard a healthy democracy.