One of the core principles in the Common Ground approach to working with trainees is the idea of community. Whether we are training in the classroom, going over how to fill out a job application or the intricacies of English pronouns, or we are in the garden working to get crops planted, cultivated or harvested, we are working together toward a goal larger than just one person.

Common Ground is not a group of volunteers helping a group of refugees. We are a community of human beings working together to help each other flourish on this planet. At this moment, some of us have more expereince with our culture and more material resources to contribute, but it hasn’t taken long to realize that each of us is learning from each other and growing together. Some are learning job skills and how to “make it” in U.S. society. Some are learning about the amazing resilience of the human spirit. Some are learning about tenacity and perseverance and the many faces of generosity. All of us are being changed and, at the same time, merged into a community of people who care about each other.

Why is the idea of community so important? The dignity and personhood of each individual is honored when we are allowed to be a contributing member of a community. The most demeaning thing I can think of is being made to feel that we have nothing to contribute. But the opposite is also true. When we are recognized as having something of value to contribute, we rise to a new level of hope, and dignity begins to be restored.

A question I often ask myself when I am about to do something for someone is, “Am I bestowing or am I befriending?” When I am bestowing, I picture myself swooping down with something that I drop into a place of need. Yay, me! It’s a top down approach. It also insults the value and dignity of the person on whom I am “bestowing.” When I am befriending, the picture in my heart is far different. I am coming alongside knowing there is a need I can help meet and also keenly aware that, if the tables were turned, they would do the same for me.  Lucky me! Giving in friendship, is upbuilding and honors the value of an individual.

Common Ground’s model is beautifully built to honor the value and dignity of everyone involved.