Interlocking Visions: A Creative Exploration of BB2C's Why

Jenna Stewart, BB2C Career Pathway Specialist

At the end of February, our staff and board members participated in meaningful conversations and brainstorming sessions at the annual BB2C Board Retreat. This gathering wasn't just about strategic planning though; it was about weaving the intricate tapestry of personal stories and collective aspirations that form the beating heart of BB2C.

Our two newest team members, Jenna Stewart and Emily Bentley, had a vision to create a collaborative art piece that told a story. The focal point of this project was a unique and creative activity that would not only engage the participants but also serve as a tangible representation of the board's essence. The BB2C Makerspace took center stage, bringing to life this concept with the use of keyhole tessellation interlocking shapes.

Working together, the purpose was clear: create a visual masterpiece that not only reflected the diverse origins of the board members within the organization but also captured the passion that fueled their commitment to community and career-connected learning. 

These pieces were more than mere symbols; they were vessels of personal narratives waiting to be unlocked. The extruding sections of each shape became the canvas for members to articulate how they initially got involved with BB2C. From chance encounters to purposeful decisions, the narratives unfolded, showcasing the diverse paths that led each individual to this organization dedicated to bridging the gap between education and employment.

Next, participants delved into the depths of their motivations. They expressed what drove them to be an integral part of BB2C. Whether it was a personal passion for education, a desire to make a positive impact, or a commitment to community development, the shapes began to encapsulate the unique drives propelling each board member forward.

The final part revolved around the vision each member held for the future of community career-connected learning. As they inscribed their aspirations onto the tessellation shapes, a shared sense of purpose emerged, creating a mosaic of dreams and goals for BB2C's evolution.

With their individual narratives now etched onto the pieces, the magic unfolded as these interlocking shapes came together on a large magnetic board. The connection between the pieces symbolized the interdependence and unity of the BB2C mission. It illustrated how, just like the interlocking pieces, the board members influence and support each other in building bridges to careers for the community. The completed masterpiece stood as a testament to the diversity, passion, and collective vision that defined BB2C. It was not just a symbolic representation; it was a living, breathing embodiment of the organization's "why."

As the retreat came to a close, the BB2C staff and board members looked upon their creation with a renewed sense of purpose. The keyhole tessellation served as a reminder that, just like the pieces of the puzzle, they were all vital components of a larger mission.