SURE - Standing Up for Racial Equity

Your generosity sparked transformation in a circle of teenagers – making a lasting impact in Madison County.

At Anderson High School this past January, a roomful of students started their day with arms crossed and heads low. But by the time the last bell rang, they were seeing the world, and themselves, in a new light.

This change did not happen by chance. These workshops were fueled through SURE – Standing Up for Racial Equity - and a grant from Madison County Community Foundation.

SURE is a grassroots organization founded in the wake of George Floyd’s murder by Angie Strickler and other community leaders. Through the grant that was made possible through unrestricted giving from generous donors, “Implicit Bias for Teens” Workshops were held. These were not lectures, but rather interactive, eye-opening, and conversation-sparking experiences. Led by the skilled educators of the PEACE Learning Center, these workshops gave students tools to recognize unconscious bias in everyday decisions—and the power to challenge it.

Because of this grant, the workshops reached more than expected—extending into five full Social Justice Leadership classes rather than just two. Adults are joining the conversation too. A complementary adult workshop brought together community leaders including school board members and a principal, making key decision-makers more aware of the ways implicit bias shapes systems and lives.

On the cusp of starting SURE, Strickler asked herself, “What am I going to do in 20 years when I look back on this time? I have a safe life. Is that my legacy? Is that what I want to be remembered for? Or do I want to change something?”

SURE is choosing change. SURE is choosing to educate and advocate and engage. Learn more about SURE and get involved: www.madisoncountysure.org

Every gift, large and small, contributes to the mission of Madison County Community Foundation to increase the quality of life for the citizens of Madison County. Consider giving to the Impact Madison Fund to help us continue to meet emerging local needs. Impact Madison Grants support nonprofit programs in the areas of Arts, Culture, and History, Health and Human Services, Education, Thriving Community, and Women and Children. All donations to this fund will be tripled.