Community
We live in a culture that values independence and autonomy. Conversely, the CCSC follows the example of God, who exists in community as the Trinity. We live in community for mutual support and encouragement in the difficult work that we choose to do as volunteers. Living in community demands openness, flexibility and compassion for one's self and others, and the ability to ask for help. We realize that in community we cannot live a completely private life. We have a responsibility to all members of the community, as they do to us.
During the year, volunteers commit, as best they can, to the following:
- Speak their truth to community members --being open and honest, willing to share their lives with them, and allowing others to do the same. Practically speaking, volunteers do their best to share stories about their experiences; communicate issues; challenge each other; believe enough in their own opinions (positive and negative; small and big) to voice them.
- Create a safe space for themselves and others. Here, the effort to genuinely listen to each other is important.
- Make community the priority of the week, which will include a community meeting at least once a week and periodic Support Process sessions. Practically speaking, a volunteer needs to plan outside activities around the community calendar (similar to how a family schedules life around its calendar.)
- Nurture the opportunity for fun, honest communication, and the deepening of relationships. To offset the challenges this year can bring, each person must make room for healthy fun and entertainment.
- Make decisions which affect the community or The CCSC only after consulting them. The community does not decide for an individual; however, the impact of a decision must be considered.