about our lived experience: partners for change
Challenges of Systems Change Work and the Importance of Lived Experience
Traditional approaches to change work often overlook the nuanced realities of those directly impacted by systemic issues. This oversight results in solutions that are disconnected from the lived experiences of the communities they intend to serve. Consequently, the effectiveness and sustainability of such initiatives are compromised. Recognizing this gap, it becomes evident that lived experience should be at the core of any transformation. Lived experience encompasses the invaluable insights gained through direct engagement with social issues, offering a profound understanding of the challenges at hand. Integrating lived experience into the fabric of systems change efforts ensures solutions that are authentic, relevant, and sustainable.
Why Organizations and Social Innovators Struggle to Connect
Despite the shared goal of effecting positive change, organizations and social innovators with lived experience often face significant barriers working together. Traditional avenues for networking and collaboration may not prioritize the voices of those directly affected by social issues. Additionally, systemic barriers such as limited access to resources and opportunities further exacerbate the challenge of forming meaningful partnerships.
Introducing Our Lived Experience (OLE) as the Solution
OLE serves as a catalyst for change, bridging the gap between organizations and social innovators with lived experience. Our platform provides a vibrant ecosystem where innovators and partners converge to co-create impactful solutions. By centering the voices and expertise of those with lived experience, OLE ensures that initiatives are rooted in authenticity and relevance.
The OLE Approach: Enabling Social Innovators and Partners
OLE enables social innovators by providing a supportive network and amplifying their voices. Through targeted initiatives and collaborations, we facilitate the development and implementation of innovative solutions to pressing social challenges. Our focus areas include mental health, family support, criminal justice involvement, homelessness, chronic illness, and intersections thereof.
Join Us in Transforming Communities Together with Our Lived Experience
Join Our Network of Social Innovators:
OLE welcomes social innovators from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about driving positive change. By joining our network, you gain access to valuable resources, support, and collaboration opportunities. Whether you're an individual changemaker or part of an organization, your lived experience and innovative ideas are invaluable contributions to our collective efforts.
Partner with Us and Our Network:
Collaboration is at the heart of OLE's mission. We actively seek partnerships with organizations, institutions, and community groups aligned with our vision of centering lived experience in systems change. Through strategic collaborations, we leverage collective expertise and resources to amplify impact and drive sustainable change.
OLE is actively seeking capital to invest in social innovators and expand our network. Your investment directly supports the growth of initiatives that prioritize lived experience and advance transformative solutions to societal challenges. By investing in OLE, you become a catalyst for positive change, driving innovation and empowerment within communities.
Change Tales
Transforming communities together.
Our Lived Experience (OLE) proudly partnered with Village Is Possible (VIP), an innovative initiative co-founded by Denicia Carlay and Ranecia Cormier, aimed at healing and restoring communities affected by systemic oppression.
In its inaugural year, OLE invested vital capacity in VIP, recognizing the urgent need for intergenerational healing and familial support for system-impacted youth and families. This partnership harnessed the power of community-driven solutions and amplified the voices of those with lived experiences of exploitation, referred to as “Survivor Leaders.” By centering on the wisdom of Survivor Leaders and indigenous healing practices, VIP designed an innovative approach to address the complex trauma of child sexual exploitation.
Key Achievements:
Community-Driven Events: In collaboration with Alameda County, VIP organized two impactful events to support survivors of child sexual exploitation and at-risk youth. These events, led by survivor leaders and social workers, played a vital role in raising awareness and bridging knowledge gaps.
Empowering the Youth: VIP’s youth empowerment event was a significant step towards engaging and supporting youth, highlighting the need for more inclusive community resources.
Our Journey Ahead:
This partnership has been a beacon of hope and a model for community-led healing. We are committed to continuing our support for VIP's groundbreaking work in creating sustainable, healing-centered communities. Together, we strive for a future where every individual has the support and resources to heal and thrive.