DonateCommunity Testimonials
We are a multiracial, multicultural, multigenerational and socio-economically diverse movement of people committed to taking action that creates thriving and equitable communities! We are Gathering Ground.
Mission
Gathering Ground creates irresistible, justice-centered gatherings that ignite dialogue, learning, action, and collaboration, in solidarity with all people, and in service to the creation of a fair and just world.
Vision
We envision a joyful, just world of belonging and radical generosity.
We Value
JUSTICE & EQUITY
We pursue and amplify ideas, practices, and connections in allyship with oppressed peoples that help to create fair and fertile ground for all people. We believe in facing historical truths of oppression, repairing harms, and exploring new ways to be in right-relationship and harmony with one another and the planet.
SHARED HUMANITY
We foster the dignified coexistence of people from different cultures, generations, identities, abilities and socio-economic classes. We believe in the power of braiding diverse ideas and people. We seek a peaceful and prosperous society where all of us can live among, work with, and care about each other.
COLLABORATION & PARTICIPATORY DEMOCRACY
We champion democratic, participatory decision-making processes that create a platform for all voices to shape, influence, and determine decisions and outcomes; tapping into the wisdom, knowledge and lived experience of all. Collaboration for us means more than working together – we honor collective responsibility, reciprocity, shared leadership, and shared ownership of our livelihoods /resources.
CHANGEMAKERS
VISIONARIES
CONNECTORS
& INFLUENCERS
Pictured: Group photo featuring attendees of Day Two of our 2025 Movement Building Call to Collaboration
About Our History:
Creative New Jersey is founded
Creative New Jersey becomes Gathering Ground
Elevating Equity (EE) Initiative Launched
Elevating Equity Program led by Justin Laing, Hillombo LLC 2022Â
EE: Race Equity Training series - Led by Whitney Parnell, Service Never Sleeps 2023Â
GG Goes to D.C. - National Health Equity Collaborative Conference - Open Space Meeting 2024
EE: Anti-Oppression Collaborative Learning Program - led by Justin Laing, Hillombo LLC
Sipping in Solidarity Begins
2025 Briefings
- The State of Unions and Organizing in the U.S. with Chris Smalls, Amazon Labor Union Founder
- Building Worker Power with investigative journalist Bob Hennelly
- Embrace AI for Nonprofit Impact with Rachel Kimber
- Housing and Urban Justice with Miguel Robles-Durán, Parsons School of Design Professor
- Participatory Budgeting Project with Nisha Thompson
- Consent Decision Making – How to Eliminate Friction & Conflict in Decision-Making Processes with Ted Rau, Sociocracy for All
- Embrace AI for Nonprofit Impact – Practical Tools for Responsible Innovation with Rachel Kimber
EE: Race Equity Training series - Led by Whitney Parnell, Service Never Sleeps 2025
Mission Refresh
EE: Allyship Training - Led by Whitney Parnell, Service Never Sleeps 2026
A Note From The Executive Director
2026 has been a year of exciting growth and meaningful change for Gathering Ground, and we look forward to continuing to grow that impact in the years ahead. At the heart of this next chapter is a renewed sense of purpose and possibility, fueled by radical generosity and joy. Our work continues to be guided by a clear and new vision and mission we’re excited to share.