See where we started and where we are now…
Our Story
In late 2016, leaders from six Miami organizations heard locals expressing a need for stronger relationships, deeper understanding, widespread kindness, and increased empathy.
These leaders - Roberta Shevin (MCCJ), Nancy Ancrum (Miami Herald), Stephanie Sylvestre (The Children’s Trust), Rebecca Mandelman and Matthew Beatty (The Miami Foundation), Claudia Grillo and Tammy Klingler (United Way of Miami-Dade), and Rebecca Fishman Lipsey (Radical Partners) - came together and decided to take action.
Together, they dreamed up 10 Days of Connection, an initiative to confront increased divisiveness facing communities across the country. It is an annual community led challenge inspiring all locals to step out of their comfort zone and come together with people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, to unite in our shared humanity.
2017
Year 1
2018
Year 2
2019
2020
2021
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
2022
Year 6
2023
Year 7
The first 10 Days of Connection is born in Miami-Dade County, out of a common goal to unite in our shared humanity and fight against growing divisiveness.
The 10 Days of Connection expands into Broward county through the leadership of Cori Meltzer (CFM Mediation), making the 10 Days of Connection a regional endeavor through anchor initiatives such as massive potlucks, book-club nights, and live panels.
The 2019 initiative was also supported by Leslie Miller Saiontz (Achieve Miami), Claudia Grillo (University of Miami), the Jewish Federation of Broward County, Children’s Services Council of Broward County and the Community Foundation of Broward.
2020 challenged us. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we went virtual and found new ways to listen to each other. For the first time, we expanded outside of South Florida, reaching 43 U.S. states and 57 countries.
For 2021, we collectively dreamt up an initiative that allowed all of us to safely adventure out of our bubbles to learn from and about others.
We co-created bolder, deeper, and meaningful connections, grounded in the formula: why + who + what + how to discuss pressing issues and connect for a stronger, more equitable, united world.
In 2022, we continued moving forward with the 10 Days of Connection formula of success. We also included opportunities to connect for hosts themselves and began dreaming for our expansion beyond South Florida. With 240+ leaders representing 210 organizations the 10 Days of Connection offered 80+ connection experiences for locals.
In 2023, we had another successful 10 Days of Connection. This year we reached 36,800+ locals via our social media channels and in person. In addition, 5,700+ people joined us for 60+ different Connection Experiences, hosted by 200+ leaders and organizations.
