Sprockets Learning Cohort

Sprockets is pleased to offer a learning cohort for Saint Paul Youth Workers or new supervisors with at least 1-2 years of direct service experience. We will explore trauma, systemic oppression, mental wellness, and restorative practices, and their impact on the field of youth work.

The learning cohort aims to deepen understanding and build skills and practices rooted in inclusive identity exploration, culminating in an action project that applies the learnings to your work.

Applications accepted through December 8, 2023. Apply here 


Sprockets Learning Cohort Flyer

What you will Experience

  • Cohort-centered learning community
  • Intentional community of practice focused on exploring Trauma, Systemic Oppression, Mental Wellness, Restorative Practices and their intersections
  • Hands-on, interactive, experiential
  • Discussion and reflection on both session content and activities

How you will Benefit

  • Build your resume and your professional network
  • $1000 stipend
  • Multi-layered understanding of how Trauma, Systemic Oppression, Mental Wellness, and Restorative Practices impact youth and youth work
  • Tangible project that impacts your current work.

Your Commitment

  • Attend monthly meetings Jan 2024 - June 2025, *(summer 2024 schedule TBD with participants)
  • 3rd Friday each month 9am-12, beginning Jan 19th.
  • 1:1 coaching sessions and reflection interviews
  • Self-directed, completed action project

About the Facilitator

Julie Richards (she/they)

Julie brings over 20 years of leadership, curriculum design, staff training/development, and program implementation through evaluation to conversations rooted in equitable family and youth development. Professional experiences across juvenile justice, children’s mental health, and public and private education, have given Julie the comprehensive lens necessary to help organizations create equitable and sustainable programming. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Howard University in English and Secondary Education. Julie also has a Master’s degree in Education Policy, Organization and Leadership with a focus on Diversity and Equity from University of Illinois, Champagne-Urbana.