The Heartland Center for Population Health and Community Systems Development is Hosting Beyond Intent: A Community Engagement Workshop, Featuring Shavanna Spratt-Bailey, Founder And Executive Director of Da Hood Connect (DHC)

The Heartland Center for Population Health and Community Systems Development is hosting Beyond Intent: A Community Engagement Workshop, featuring Shavanna Spratt-Bailey, Founder and Executive Director of Da Hood Connect (DHC). DHC is a local nonprofit reducing social barriers through community engagement within communities in STL. Shavanna is also the CEO of Da Hood Talks Entertainment, offering the Da Hood Talks Podcast, a community engagement tool amplifying community voices through meaningful conversations and curated community-centered spaces. Meaningful community engagement requires more than good intentions. It requires self-awareness, a clear understanding of organizational culture, and practical strategies for addressing the barriers that shape community participation. During this interactive workshop, participants will examine personal and organizational positionality using the Power Wheel, identify a meaningful pivot for their organization, and work collaboratively to map their community ecosystem. Participants will also explore common barriers to engagement—including transportation, childcare, scheduling, and access—and identify potential partners who can help create more responsive and inclusive engagement strategies. This workshop offers participants an opportunity to move from intention to action by developing practical tools and connections that can strengthen authentic, community-centered partnerships. Seating is limited. This registration will close when capacity is reached. A light lunch will be provided. For questions or comments, contact Aver Yakubu at rauta.a.yakubu@slu.edu.