Spring is here 

We are welcoming the longer days of light, and even some warmth sneaking in! 

A group of staff and board members just returned from the Othering and Belonging Conference in Oakland, CA: three days of steeping ourselves into what is possible when we intentionally focus on belonging and the heavy work it takes to make it real. There was a theme about practice that we’ve heard iterations of over the past few years. 

• Belonging is not only an aspiration, it is a practice (OBI)
• Not only is it a practice, but it requires us to practice (Clarice Bailey)
• Practice makes us different (as opposed to ‘better’) (Ruth Wilson Gilmore)

North Sound ACH joined some incredible partners from across the country on two panels, providing examples of how we have embedded belonging and Targeted Universalism into our work. We shared challenges and learnings, and what we have learned from you over the years. It was pretty incredible and we’re grateful to the Othering & Belonging Institute (OBI) for letting us join in those rich dialogues. 

And, we were excited to see faces from many Washington organizations there, including the Washington Department of Commerce, Washington Department of Health, Office of Financial Management, the Seattle Foundation, the Governor’s Office of Equity, and Whatcom Community Foundation, just to name a few. Washington wants to become a state of belonging, and it was exciting to see so many there who will help make that happen.

On returning home, my son shared an article from the Seattle Times featuring Children of the Setting Sun Productions (CSSP). My heart was overflowing with joy for them, their growth, and what is yet to come as they continue forward. If you didn’t see the article check it out by . Also check out their , which highlights their work. We are so grateful to be in partnership with them. 

Our goal is to continue uplifting the work you all do and we appreciate your trust in us as we try new things. North Sound ACH alone cannot make change happen, but together nothing seems impossible for us to tackle. 

Thanks for all you do!