Experiential
Workshop Creates Framework for Personal and Social Change based on Eco-Philosopher Joanna Macy’s The Work that Reconnects
Lost Valley Educational Center will be hosting the “Coming Home to Earth: Work that Reconnects” Workshop to be held October 28-30, 2011 in Dexter, Oregon near Eugene. Based on eco-philosopher Joanna Macy's “The Work That Reconnects” the workshop weaves her study of deep ecology, Buddhism, and living systems theory with four decades of activism, creating a new framework for personal and social change. Amid social and ecological upheaval, The Work That Reconnects helps to honor the Earth, transform despair and apathy into constructive, collaborative action, and offers methods to make those connections part of our lives.
Students of the workshop will be encouraged to explore insights and connections - with each other, our planet, our ancestors, and people of the future – that will help them to find courage and power in this time of crisis and global
transition.
Workshop Facilitators Gessert, Fessenden and
Wood The workshop will be facilitated by Kate Gessert, Lynne Fessenden, and Pam Wood. Gessert, Fessenden and Wood all studied together with Joanna Macy in 2005, and have since been leading Oregon workshops based on her work.
Pam Wood is an
art therapist, retreat facilitator, and author whose skills with music, art, and experiential exercises help participants deepen their resolve and resilience to take action on behalf of Earth. Wood has
led teenagers and adults in explorations of ecological/social justice, global peace building, creativity, and connecting with nature.
Lynne Fessenden is the director of Willamette Farm and Food Coalition, a community non-profit facilitating the development of a secure and
sustainable food system in Lane County.
Kate Gessert writes, teaches English as a Second Language classes at Lane Community College, and is a member of Climate Crisis Working Group. Gessert has worked with edible landscaping and sustainable
gardening practices for the past 35 years.
Teaching Environmental Responsibility and Nurturing Relationships
The Work that Reconnects workshop blends environmental responsibility in the world with nurturing oneself and one’s relationships. For many years Lost Valley hosted Naka Ima/Heart of Now workshops and has since moved to
permaculture and sustainability courses; this weekend workshop bridges that gap by honestly exploring and meaningfully helping the participants in the context of environmental activism and the push for global environmental responsibility.
Additional Website Information Available
For more information on The Work that Reconnects, please visit joannamacy.net. Additional information on the Willamette Farm and Food Coalition is available at lanefood.org. Facilitator Pam Wood’s website can be found at www.sacredgroundhealing.com.
Lost Valley Educational Center provides opportunities for hands-on learning and education relevant to developing more sustainable communities and creating positive change. Lost Valley is also home to an aspiring EcoVillage and Camp & Conference Center facilities, providing students, campers, guests and community members an opportunity to live and learn in a rustic setting within a forest environment.
Lost Valley Educational Center is located at 81868 Lost Valley Lane, Dexter, OR 97431 (close to Eugene, OR.) For further information on Lost Valley, other upcoming courses or registration go to www.lostvalley.org or call Lost Valley at (541) 937-3351 for details.
