Prior to and post pandemic, the Southeastern Service Center Council (SESSC) has made a commitment to their community. In partnership with the SESSC Equity Team, SESSC leadership and local chapters in the service center, all involved have made it a priority to lift up marginalized segments of the community.

Each member of the SESSC supports this work by highlighting a different Community Based Organization (CBO) at each service center meeting. A representative from the highlighted CBO gives a presentation. Some of the CBOs work with women/children in crisis, foster youth, LGBTQ+ youth, and families with incarcerated parents. These emotional, joyful presentations have helped to grow empathy and understanding for all.

The Equity Team follows up with the CBO to discuss their needs and service center members step up to bring in the needed donations. Chapters have included budget lines to support organizations in SESSC communities. The Equity Team also hosts a reception and toy drive in December so that children in the community can receive holiday gifts.

“Southeastern is so giving, [and has] a very family feel inside and outside of meetings,” said CTA Board Member Margie Granado, who nominated SESSC for the award. “It’s just very connected. Even before we started doing community-based work, at every meeting we would raise funds for CTA’s Disaster Relief Fund. We want to make sure we support our own members.”

Watch Southeastern Service Center Council’s short video here. Read about the other Human Rights Award winners here.