The Adirondack Diversity Initiative (ADI), in partnership with the Harriet Tubman Liberation Foundation, the Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks at Great Camp Sagamore, and facilitator/mentor Lucienne Nicholson, presents a program designed to provide Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color (BIWOC) leaders with the respite and sense of community needed to sustain their work and inspire their journeys. This program aims to bring together individuals with lived experiences as women and gender-expansive individuals to create a supportive space for empowerment and healing.
Next Retreat in 2026: Thursday, August 20 - Sunday, August 23, 2026
Sagamore Institute of the Adirondacks at Great Camp Sagamore
Our program begins with a transformative 4-day retreat in the Adirondacks, where we create a space for rejuvenation, connection, and empowerment, utilizing nature as our healer.
Each cohort is then invited to networking and leadership development opportunities throughout the year to continue to support and nurture the cohort's growth.
2026 Cohort Applications will open in February 2026.
Cultivating Community Leaders is part of ADI's Sustaining BIPOC Leadership Initiative (SBLI)
To empower individuals to become catalysts for positive change within their communities. Through education, mentorship, and collaborative initiatives, we aim to foster the development of compassionate, visionary leaders dedicated to creating sustainable solutions to local challenges. By cultivating a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and innovation, we strive to build resilient communities of females and those who identify as female leaders where every voice is heard, every talent is valued. Individuals are empowered to make a meaningful difference.
BIPOC and other marginalized leaders are exhausted, often overriding instincts of self-care and pushing through because of the importance of “the work”. These leaders are overworked, underpaid, and under-resourced. Yet, these are the same leaders who are at the forefront of advancing racial, social, environmental, and economic justice for our communities.
Participants will leave with a:
A deeper understanding of the importance of self-care, ways to practice it in their everyday lives, and a commitment to helping each other maintain this practice.
An increased appreciation for the Adirondack Park and increased comfort in nature, using it as a healing force for themselves and their communities.
A network and commitment to working together to support and strengthen their communities.
Members of 2024 Retreat with Staff from Great Camp Sagamore
Learn more about ADI at https://www.diversityadk.org/