Circles of Change Luncheon

Girl Talk

The 10th Annual Circles of Change luncheon and fundraiser evidenced once again, girls like to talk, sing, dance and share. That’s what the Building Bridges organization provides young women when they are brought together in Colorado in a camp-like atmosphere. This group of girls come from diverse backgrounds, countries, politics, religion and education. They realize in a few short days that by sharing and crossing bridges together they are all on the same side. That they are intelligent, caring human beings first and foremost. Being chosen to be in the Colorado group, each one soon realizes the importance of being female, and what they can accomplish together in the world as they enter adulthood. 

For almost 20 years, the Building Bridges MEUS (Middle East, U.S.) program has brought young Israeli, Palestinian and American women together to build relationships with each other, and to gain communication and leadership skills that enable them to bring about more just, inclusive societies.

Each year, the faces of the Building Bridges girls beam with confidence, self-discovery and delight. Because each understands their take away from the program will help help foster friendship, peace and understanding in the world.

Speakers at the luncheon included Nichole Flores, whose heartfelt appreciation was heard. She is an alumni of the program and confirmed Building Bridges led her to where she is now – finishing her PhD and currently a popular instructor of Theology at Saint Anselm College, Virginia.

Harold Fields, Race Dialogue Facilitator, gave a moving talk about his childhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Despite racial prejudice in his school, city and, his choice of a marriage partner, he learned early the roots of prejudice and ignorance.  Fields, a retired IBM engineer, has spent much of his life and career helping diverse groups find comfort within their selves and their life choices. He summed it up beautifully by saying, “Building bridges [in life] means that each of us has something to learn and something to share.”

The luncheon also honored Magic Moments, a non-profit theatrical and musical production company with the Shift Award. Founder, Ted Kuenz, brought along his lively performers and spoke of his mission saying, “Magic Moments is the integration of everybody. Everyone has a voice, and voices should be heard.” The audience loved the performers and their enduring talent.

For more information on the Building Bridges organization contact them at info@BuildingBridgesShift.org, www.BuildingBridgesShift.org. P.O. Box 101958, Denver, CO 80250.

Building Bridges Luncheon