One Small Step: Bridging Divides and Building Community in West Michigan
Created by StoryCorps, One Small Step is a national initiative designed to remind Americans of the shared humanity in all of us, even with those whose beliefs differ from our own. This program brings together strangers with diverse political perspectives for a 50-minute conversation, not to debate, but to connect, listen, and understand each other as people.
In 2024, WGVU, along with valued partners including Seeds of Promise, the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse, Kaufman Interfaith Institute, Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, will host One Small Step in West Michigan. With participants’ permission, these meaningful conversations will be preserved for future generations at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, creating a lasting record of community connection and civil dialogue.
As one of just seven stations selected nationally, WGVU and its partners are committed to bringing communities together, one conversation at a time. Seeds of Promise is proud to participate in this effort, reflecting our mission to foster dialogue, collaboration, and understanding throughout Grand Rapids and Kent County.
Community organizations, churches, civic groups, and local leaders are encouraged to get involved by helping connect West Michigan residents who are ready to take One Small Step. This initiative is an opportunity to strengthen relationships, build empathy, and encourage civil discourse across communities.
If your group or organization wants to participate, contact Phil Lane at lanep@gvsu.edu or call (616) 331-6791 for more details. By taking part in One Small Step, residents will have the chance to meet someone new, share experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue that transcends political differences.
Join Seeds of Promise and our partners in this unique effort to foster understanding, unity, and respect in Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, one conversation at a time.