Diversity is Not Enough.

Leaders Need Proximity.

The Proximity Project is an eight-week cohort experience for leaders who want to examine and improve how they interact with and serve communities of color.

”Authentic and powerful. I am more aware of biases, my lack of proximity to communities of color and steps I need to take to improve this. TPP=GROWTH!"
-The Proximity Project ParticipantCohort 1

Our approach

Guided reflection

Assessments and reflection to confront personal and organizational proximity and biases.

Proximity Projects

Practical assignments to deepen understanding and build lasting relationships

Candid speakers

Insights centered on the voices of stakeholders and leaders of color

Cohort Experience

Personal and cross-institutional networks of equity-minded leaders

"There is power in proximity. Get close to people and communities who are at risk – and stay close.” – Bryan Stevenson (Executive Director, Equal Justice Initiative)

Research shows that many “diversity programs” fail because leaders are rarely pushed to become truly proximate to the people and issues they discuss during mandatory training.

The Proximity Project is not an isolated, intellectual exercise— leaders connect closely with stakeholders, families, and community leaders whose truth and insights inform participants’ reflections and actions.

TPP cohorts meet virtually for 2.5-hour training sessions each week for eight weeks. During these sessions, participants discuss assigned readings, complete assessment and reflection activities, gain actionable insights from guest speakers, learn about models and case studies of serving marginalized communities, and develop closer cross-institutional relationships. The work during the sessions is complemented by a series of pragmatic assignments that bring institutions closer to the communities they serve.