Reflections on 2022 - 2023 

Bridging Divides - El Dorado was conceived in 2022, and it has been about 15 months since the initial kick-off convenings in September and November of 2022.  Much has happened since then that we are excited to share in this report.

A primary goal at the outset of the initiative was to provide tools for El Dorado County residents to help them with the polarization that has impacted so many individuals, groups, and communities.  Our goal was that at least 500 people per year would participate in at least one of our bridging activities. 

The impact of the initiative has been very positive throughout our county. By the end of 2023 we have already reached our goal of 500 participants.

As a non-partisan group (reflected in the membership of our advisory board), we have strived to ensure balanced views on our activities and strategies. A key goal from the outset was to engage people of all political persuasions. As you will see in the data below, we have achieved some success in this regard. Just over 50% of respondents to a survey of participants in Bridging Divides activities identified as liberal. Approximately 25% identified as conservative, and 18% as  independent.   

We also committed to, and have achieved considerable success in reaching residents throughout all geographic areas of our county. 

Following are some of our other key takeaways:

  • The impact of our activities have been rated very positively among participants.

  • We need to expand reach and to ensure greater participation among all sectors, especially with our faith-based, youth, public safety, and healthcare sectors. We initially held meetings with sector leads, but meetings ended after participation waned

  • Inviting people to participate in online and in-person events was initially successful, but more challenging over time. We have shifted to a strategy where we are working to meet with existing groups such as local service clubs, the county’s Hub leaders, faith groups, and the Youth Commission. We also hosted two successful, in-person social events where people learned about Bridging DIvides and were able to practice some bridging strategies borrowed from Living Room Conversations. 

On balance, we are pleased to report that our initial efforts have been well-received and impactful, and we look forward to expanding our reach and impact in the coming year.

Thank you for your interest and support of Bridging Divides - El Dorado.