The social conditions that create health operate together in systems. Education is related to employment is related to poverty is related to housing is related to environmental issues, etc. So to change these social conditions, we have to figure out how to address entire systems. Unfortunately, most often the pieces of the system work in isolation or without strategic linking with other parts of the system.
The Center believes that creating Loving Community requires that all the parts of the system see how they are inter-related and then intentionally bring them together. Housing, employment, environment, community development, arts and culture, ex-offender re-entry, public health workers, etc, communicate and plan their work as if their worlds are related to each other. Each brings their own expertise and wisdom.
Systems theory says that systems prefer the status quo and that attempts to change the system will be met with resistance. The Center recognizes and embraces this reality. The conflict that arises as a system is impacted can be a creative opportunity if the community recognizes its function and can maintain a learning stance in the midst of it.
