Promoting civil dialogue for a stronger community.
How it started
Bridging Divides - El Dorado came about because many leaders and residents in El Dorado County are concerned about the growing social and political divides and the impact they have on our relationships, our work, and our overall quality of life. Many of them have been inspired by the work being done in other communities and organizations demonstrating that divides can be bridged and that trusting relationships and respectful communication can be restored even among people with different perspectives and political affiliations.
Our Mission
The Mission of Bridging Divides – El Dorado is to provide resources and tools to build trust and respect, to depolarize challenging situations, to promote civil and cordial conversations, and to encourage collaboration for the well-being of all El Dorado County residents. We are available to assist any organization impartially and without bias.
What we are doing
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Cameron Park Convening
100+ residents came together to find common ground, hear success stories from other communities and organizations, identify how divides affect us personally and professionally, and learn about resources available for ongoing support.
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Depolarizing Within Workshop
Participants learned how to be more aware of their own “inner polarizer”, how to be critical without demonizing, dismissing or stereotyping large swaths of the population, and strategies for intervening constructively in social conversations with like-minded peers when these conversations veer into contempt and ridicule for people who hold other political views.
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Madrona Voices in the Vineyard Event
Bridging Divides hosted a "Voices in the Vineyard" listening event at Madrona Vineyards. Old Town Grill graciously donated a variety of salads in Placerville and participants were further treated to delicious wines from Madrona Vineyards and charcuterie boards from Diedrick's Cheese. Attendees in small groups had a chance to share their thoughts about El Dorado County.
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Pine-O-Mine Cider Social
Bridging Divides hosted a “Cider Social” listening event at Pine-O-Mine Ranch. Attendees in small groups had a chance to share their thoughts about what they love about living in El Dorado County and what would make the county stronger.
“It was such an educational experience and I have shared it with many people already! I hope the movement grows.”
“Seeing a gathering of so many people interested in the topic inspired hope in the possibility of our county residents being interested in working together.”
“I would love to engage with more “Living Room” conversations with residents of the county who have differing views AND authentic desires to problem solve community issues.”
What people are saying
“I’m more polarized than I thought I was”
“A reminder to be humble to really listen and think more about making it right rather than being right.”
“I realize that I am existing in a bubble and that conflict is having a huge negative impact on others in our community.”
“The willingness of opposing parties to convene in the same room shows an acknowledgment of the problem.”
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“Very practical advice. I will definitely use what I learned.”
“We need more of these types of gatherings. A conversation truly needs to be happening to bring people together.”
“The very fact that people understand that there is a real issue in division is valuable. Thank you for taking real steps to do something about it.”
“I appreciate the passion and commitment leadership brings to this issue of depolarization. Thank you for the content, skills, and opportunity to bring these learnings out into the world.”
“Really outstanding. Exceeded my expectations!”
