Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhonda Carter Adams
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2024, Gateway Equity Institute was thrilled to begin our journey as an officially merged organization following the profound collaboration and alignment between Diversity Awareness Partnership and NCCJ St. Louis. DAP had been working in the St. Louis region since 2001, and NCCJ St. Louis since 1930. Prior to this merger, DAP and NCCJ St. Louis worked together on events like Dialogue for Change 2020 (community sessions that fostered vulnerable, growth-minded discussions about race) and the 2021 Diversity Summit (an annual event that provides an opportunity to learn how to work collectively toward a future in which all St. Louisans can thrive).
Now as GEI, we are excited to begin a new era. GEI’s mission is to activate and support communities to advance equity and justice. We will achieve this mission by empowering leaders to drive institutional and systemic change, providing a wide range of transformational training and coaching opportunities, and engaging youth through in-depth diversity programs. While upholding the effective components of both our legacy organizations’ educational initiatives, GEI is tailoring them to address emerging challenges in our ever-evolving landscape.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The legacy organizations that formed GEI (DAP and NCCJ St. Louis) have both navigated immense challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, including the need to innovate around online programming and provide chances for virtual connection and learning. We also aim to stay nimble throughout developments in our local and national political spheres.
As a newly-merged organization, we are now in a critical period of gathering community support and fundraising. We deeply appreciate the opportunity to grow our collaborative network! The creativity and passion for positive change that defines the St. Louis region inspires us every day.
As you know, we’re big fans of Gateway Equity Institute. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
GEI draws from several youth programs begun by our two pre-merger legacy organizations. Give Respect, Get Respect (GRGR) is a free five-session anti-bias program that brings together middle and high school students, school administrators, and associates from local businesses in an effort to encourage respect and acceptance among peers/co-workers. GRGR gives students the tools to become critically-conscious, inclusive leaders within their schools. Session focuses are: DEI; race; religion and beliefs; sexual orientation and gender identity; and ability status.
Another youth program, EXPLORE, is a career immersion program that focuses on connecting students of color to professional mentors in an array of industries (e.g., law, business, science, technology, marketing, etc.), thereby developing a more equitable workforce in our region. Students learn about apprenticeships, internships, and future job possibilities, as well as the importance of belonging in the workplace.
The Anytown Youth Leadership Institute brings together cohorts of high school students who are eager to acquire the tools to advocate for themselves and others. Anytown participants learn about diversity, inclusion, and how they can be equitable leaders in their communities.
GEI also offers a complete continuum of training and education services for businesses and organizations; these offerings are customizable and designed to engage participants at all stages of equity work and understanding, from the beginner stage of DEI maturity through intermediate and advanced. From focus groups to facilitated dialogue sessions to training on terminology and best practices to strategic consulting, we provide pathways toward tangible change.
Finally, GEI welcomes a diverse array of individuals from all fields and backgrounds to join the Changemaker Hub membership program. Throughout the year, we’ll share ideas, learn from one another, and cultivate meaningful connections during vibrant events. Changemaker Hub members enjoy educational sessions, listening sessions, networking breakfasts, lunches, and after-work gatherings, and more.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The GEI team is deeply grateful to our Corporate & Nonprofit Partners, Board of Directors, and community members—including long-time supporters of our legacy organizations and newcomers alike. Our work would not be possible without a multitude of perspectives. In addition, the schools, corporations, faith-based institutions, and community organizations who have partnered with us on programming have set a beautiful example of what is possible when we work across sectors and across difference. We can’t wait to see what our region achieves next. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions and ideas for future involvement with GEI!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://GatewayEquityInstitute.org
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gatewayequityinstitute
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/gatewayequityinstitute
