Join us at the Second Look Resentencing Town Hall on Wednesday, Sept 25, to learn how we can reshape our justice system by addressing excessive prison sentences, reuniting families, and reinvesting in our communities. Date: Wednesday, Sept 25 Time: 7:00 – 8:30 PM (Refreshments at 6:30 PM) Location: LINC UP Gallery, 1167 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI Featured Speakers: • Judge Kellen Dotson (Kent County District Court) • Natalie Holbrook-Combs (American Friends Service Committee) • Carlton T. Mayers, II, Esq. (GreaterGrand Rapids & Mayers Strategic Solutions) • Tenee Gildea & William Kitchen (Formerly Incarcerated Advocates) This is a free, public event. Together, we can create meaningful change for justice and community safety. Visit secondlookmi.org for more details. Let’s transform the lives of the forgotten and redirect misallocated resources into pathways for restoration. We hope to see you there! #SecondLookMI #CriminalJusticeReform #EndMassIncarceration #CommunitySafety #TheDeltaProject #JusticeReinvestment #grandrapidsmi
The Delta Project Nonprofit
Civic and Social Organizations
Grand Rapids, Michigan 936 followers
How do I become something I don't see?
About us
In 2017, a student in juvenile detention asked Cole Williams a simple, yet profound question, "How do I become something I don't see?" Cole's life work is to provide mentorship and guidance to incarcerated fathers and restore relationships between boys and men of color. He has experienced and seen a lot in his life, but still, this question caught him slightly off guard. It was the right question to ask, at the absolute right time. It required reflection, and ultimately action. Cole approached Joel Van Kuiken in late summer 2017 looking for guidance on how to deconstruct the question's meaning and context, and most importantly, how to act. Then they reached out to Eric Johnson, a trusted creative collaborator from Gorilla Motion Pictures, and posed the question to him. Now that question has become a north star, as they've launched The Delta Project. At its core, it's a focused effort to help young men in the Kent County Juvenile Detention Center become something they don't yet see by providing life skills and support in residential treatment programs and during probation. As a storytelling approach, they've developed a video production process that uses a two-way mirrored camera device that lets two people look into each other's eyes and carry on a conversation. The result is a fascinating split-screen video dialogue, in the vein of Errol Morris, that allows the viewer to almost join the conversation. But here's what's great about it. They teach the young men video production skills, and they train one of them to conduct an interview with a leader from the community who they wouldn't have the opportunity to see. And the young men lead the production. The videos are just beginning to scratch the surface, there is so much work to do. The Delta Project is working to promote change where it is needed most -- in the lives of young men returning home to their community. Please visit the website and watch the interviews, and know that much more is on the way.
- Website
-
https://thedeltaproject.co
External link for The Delta Project Nonprofit
- Industry
- Civic and Social Organizations
- Company size
- 2-10 employees
- Headquarters
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Type
- Nonprofit
- Founded
- 2019
Locations
-
Primary
Get directions
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503, US
Employees at The Delta Project Nonprofit
-
Joel Van Kuiken, MS, APR
Principal at See Context I Co-founder at The Delta Project I Working to design systems change
-
Caton Vance
Owner & Strategic Director at Vance & Company | Brand & Content Marketer | Podcast Producer | Writer
-
Cole Williams
Co-Founder, The Delta Project | Narrative Change Storyteller | Graphic Novel Author | Family Consultant & Coach
-
Bilal Al-Raed
Poet/Mentor/Key Note Speaker at The Delta Project Nonprofit
Updates
-
As we wrap up the first season of The Delta Project Podcast, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming Season 2, with a focus on leadership transition and giving a platform to young people with direct experiences in the juvenile justice system. This next season promises to delve deeper into the challenges and triumphs of our community's youth, as they become the leaders we need to foster a healthy, positive future. Join us in anticipating a series of engaging and insightful discussions. #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunityImpact #PodcastSeries Full episode: https://lnkd.in/gc-dWD4f
-
In our podcast series, we document the compelling transformation of Bilal Al-Raed, who Cole met first as a young detainee and has since grown into a key participant with insightful contributions. His development highlights the significant impact of sustained engagement and mentorship in personal and professional growth. #YouthDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #InspirationalStories Check out the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/grCAPaYJ
-
In our podcast series, we emphasize the power of vulnerability in storytelling to alter perceptions and foster a deeper understanding of diverse human experiences. By showcasing guests who share their most personal stories, we challenge listeners to rethink their preconceptions and embrace a more empathetic viewpoint. These episodes prove essential for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of human dynamics and societal challenges. #ProfessionalDevelopment #EmpathyInAction #Storytelling Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gmc-Dj7T Caton Vance, Bilal Al-Raed, Joel Van Kuiken, MS, APR
-
In a series filled with compelling narratives, certain episodes have particularly resonated with our host and audience. Cayden Brown's personal revelations, Stacey's instrumental role in accessing the detention center, and Iyanna's profound contributions exemplify the impact of sharing diverse experiences. These discussions not only highlight individual journeys but also underscore the transformative power of storytelling in understanding systemic challenges. #ProfessionalGrowth #InspirationalStories #PodcastInsights Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gvs7NNiV
-
In our latest podcast episode, we explore the strategic decision behind the Delta Project's use of podcasting to amplify the stories of young people in the juvenile justice system. This approach builds on the project's foundational work of creating video stories within juvenile detention centers, enhancing community engagement, and extending its reach. The podcast serves as a dynamic platform for ongoing dialogue and connection, crucial for driving systemic change. #SocialImpact #CommunityEngagement #StrategicCommunication Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gpKMhHpD
-
In our wrap-up episode of season 1, we highlight an extraordinary story of personal and professional growth as a young individual transitions from being a detainee to becoming the host of a podcast. His journey underscores the impact of lived experiences in fostering leadership qualities and driving community initiatives forward. This narrative is a powerful testament to the resilience and potential of youth when given the opportunity to lead. #LeadershipDevelopment #CommunityImpact #ProfessionalGrowth Full episode here: https://lnkd.in/g7zg22Nf Joel Van Kuiken, MS, APR, Bilal Al-Raed, Caton Vance
-
In our latest podcast, we delve into the crucial role of father figures and positive role models in shaping the behaviors and life choices of young individuals. This discussion highlights how strong parental guidance can effectively divert youth from potential violence to more constructive endeavors. It’s a compelling look at the social impact of mentorship and the lasting benefits of setting a positive example in both personal and community contexts. #Leadership #Mentorship #CommunityDevelopment Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/guAKkTmB
-
In our latest podcast, we explore the journey of an artist who grew up in a challenging urban environment and chose to use his experiences as inspiration for music that uplifts and educates rather than glorifies violence. This discussion delves into the role of personal choice and resilience in shaping an artist's career and impact, offering insights into how creative expressions can transcend and transform difficult surroundings. #CreativeLeadership #SocialImpact #ArtisticIntegrity Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gDxrfVed
-
Exploring the correlations between urban challenges in Jamaica and communities worldwide, our latest podcast highlights the pervasive nature of these issues and the importance of collective action. The discussion underscores the necessity of supporting youth across all geographies, recognizing them as pivotal to our future. Professionals in urban development, social work, and international relations can gain insights into fostering global cooperation to enhance community resilience. #UrbanDevelopment #GlobalChallenges #YouthInFocus Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gAHFJ3Fx