Shakti Rising has experienced tremendous growth, success, partnership, and transformation since inception. As we pause to reflect on our large scale organizational accomplishments, we are reminded of the journey of transformation that women in our programs and individuals connected with our organization experience. After all, the journey of transformation is what makes large scale change possible.
The journey of transformation is coming home to your essential self. Although there is no formal ending or beginning of the journey (because we have all been on a journey throughout our lives), we do need a place to start from and end up at. That place is Shakti Rising, our community as well as our physical home. Shakti Rising is a sanctuary in the midst of our chaotic lives, a place to experience possibilities. The possibility of doing it differently, of living our dreams, of being our selves. The possibility of women and child friendly societies that are safe, healthy, vibrant, diverse sustainable, and culturally alive.
At Shakti Rising, our vision is to create global villages that integrate beauty, infinite possibilities, heart, and spirit. Imagine walking down a city block in San Diego and seeing this vision realized. There’s a large community garden on the corner with abundant vegetables, herbs, and berries growing. Across the street is an organic café and bakery that provides sustainable income for employees and teaches women leadership and business skills. Further down the same block is an educational wellness center complete with serene classroom space, an inviting child care facility, holistic health practitioner offices, and a beautiful dance studio. There is affordable, quality, healthy housing and children play freely in front yards. Then imagine that this city block is actually the entire city of San Diego.
Shakti Rising believes that transformation starts with us. We believe that in transforming one city block (which we are already doing), we can transform a city, and it will ripple out everywhere. As you read our 2008 annual report, keep the large scale vision in mind and imagine the possibilities with us. As always, our invitation for you is to join us! Warmly,
Shannon Thompson, Founder and Visionary Director
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