Catalyst: A Reflection

Earlier this month the LeaderShape Staff and our amazing Catalyst Facilitators took a few days to go on a retreat. We found a location that was quiet, that allowed for individual reflection, connecting with others and having conversations that matter. It was a great reminder of how important it is to take an opportunity (every once in a while) to slow down, look around, breathe, appreciate the goodness that surrounds you, and consider what is next.

And that is exactly what we did. We spent our time talking about what the future holds for Catalyst. The Catalyst program started nine years ago in response to a need LeaderShape saw for a one-day program that shared some of the themes of The LeaderShape Institute. We recognized at that time that not everyone is able to take 6 days to attend The LeaderShape Institute. It is often times very difficult to take time away from work, family, classes, friends, and every day life. We don’t want that to be a reason why people can’t be a part of the LeaderShape community of individuals working to create a more just, caring and thriving world.

With that as our foundation, our group talked about all of the ways our curriculum can be changed, enhanced, reinforced and modified to give each participant a great LeaderShape experience. Whether you spend 6 days or 6 hours at a LeaderShape program, in the time you are there we want each participant to find their experience personally rewarding and one which they walk away learning more about themselves and others. We look forward to what lies ahead for Catalyst in 2015. Keep an eye out for a new look, a new curriculum, and a continued dedication to helping participants identify their values, connect with something they care about, and make a change in the world around them.

Upon reflection, the retreat was just what we needed organizationally to refocus, reconnect, and continue to work with participants to make change in the world. What started as a simple meeting turned into so much more as we embraced the concept of going on a retreat. It is a piece that, in the hurry up, fast paced world we live in, we don’t take enough time for. Yet it is so very valuable. Through the Catalyst program thousands of people have the opportunity, for one day, to live in a world of possibility and as an organization, we are thrilled to be with each one of them for that day!


Interested in learning more about Catalyst? Visit the Catalyst FAQs post from last week.