If I had to summarize the SALTA 20-Year Reunion in three words, I would say empowered, united and ready.
The energy at the reunion was powerful. I saw some old and some new SALTA graduates from so many different pockets of our communities. Every person felt engaged in what SALTA has taught us and wanted to share how it helped each of us to develop the leadership tools and refine the qualities we already possessed to become effective leaders.
I'm of the opinion that SALTA doesn't make leaders -- instead, it helps those of us that are leaders realize what we have within us to create change. It teaches us how to take the appropriate action and gives us the platform to get started.
Because of SALTA, I feel empowered to lead my community of City Heights toward a happier, healthier and safer future. In doing so, I know I'm not alone, and others like me walk beside me in the fight for environmental justice.
Mahalo,
Roddy Jerome
City Heights Resident