Join Fresno DRIVE for “Weave the People” to Advance Community Connections

Fresno DRIVE is excited to host “Weave the People” Thursday, June 4 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Table Mountain Rancheria Park at 1121 S. Chance Ave Fresno, CA 93702. This event will be an opportunity for the Fresno community to engage in the concept of weaving as a kickoff to the opening of the Weaver Awards launching this summer.  

Earlier this year, DRIVE announced its selection as a 2026 Community Host by the Aspen Institute to disseminate the Weaver Awards. DRIVE now has the honor of awarding $2,500 each to 20 select, local weavers. The application will open in the next few months. 

Attendees of the “Weave the People” event will have the opportunity to unwind and meet new community members — with the hope of building lasting connections.  

The “Weave the People” theme is fitting as this year marks 250 years since the United States was founded. Despite this historic anniversary, there is less sense of belonging and unity nationally than ever before. We are presently witnessing the displacement of people who have long called this place their home, violence against the innocent, and the suffering of others on our electronic devices. Yet even as we experience this, resilience is built among the people. Our connections together make us strong. 

Weaving is essential for those who have a vested interest in the well-being of the community. Anyone who is invested in creating a healthy and strong community knows that half the battle is showing up. When we are actively present, no matter what we are doing, we show that we care. Many people are losing trust in long-standing institutions. We read daily stories in the news about misconduct or misdeeds that have greatly harmed the community. Fresno has been no stranger to that in the past few months. However, Fresnans have also shown that they can accomplish much when they forge ahead. Collective efforts are rewarded as demonstrated by the gathering of more than 32,000 signatures for the Better Roads, Safe Streets proposed ballot measure, a citizen-led transportation initiative. 

To reconcile the past requires acknowledging, listening, and learning from other community members. Part of that reconciliation process necessitates people getting to know one another again, being present, and doing what is needed to build trusting and caring relationships. We didn’t get to this point out of nowhere, and we’re not going to land where we want to unless we all put in the effort. 

To register for “Weave the People,” please visit: https://bit.ly/4t9KVwr, and follow Fresno DRIVE on Instagram @fresnodrive for more information on the event.