REDI In Action Applied Learning Community Survey

REDI in Action Applied Learning Community

Audience: Leaders advancing equity within their organizations and communities
Focus: REDI (racial justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion) implementation, case sharing, and collaborative problem-solving

Welcome back, and welcome to those joining us for the first time! The First 5 Leadership Institute's Applied Learning Communities are facilitated peer groups designed to translate F5LI webinar content and network learning into discussion, implementation, and shared practice. Formerly known as Affinity Circles, this evolved name better reflects how these communities have grown — from spaces of belonging into applied learning spaces where peers share real-world cases, problem-solve together, and put insights into action.

What's new in FY 26-27:

Communities now meet four times per year (September, December, March, and June) — a slightly expanded cadence designed to deepen connection and sustain momentum
Sessions are 90 minutes each, held virtually
This year we are offering two Applied Learning Communities: First 5 Foundations (for newer First 5 Network members) and REDI in Action (for those advancing equity work).
Each community is co-facilitated by First 5 Network members who connect across communities for shared planning

What to expect:
Participants will co-create community agreements, engage in reflective dialogue, and apply new insights to their organizations and leadership practice.
The REDI in Action community is designed for leaders who are actively implementing equity work. Through peer learning, real-world case sharing, and collaborative problem-solving, participants strengthen REDI practice across the First 5 Network.

Please complete this intake form by 8/28/26 to be considered for the 26-27 program year.

Section 1: Your information

1.Your name

2.Your email

3.Your title/role

4.Your organization

Section 2: About you

5.Which First5 Network role type best fits your current position/area of expertise?

Programs and Services A First 5 program staff member is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring funded programs and services that advance the Commission's strategic goals

Operational and Administrative Support A First 5 staff member providing vital operational and administrative support ensures smooth daily operations and strong infrastructure for effective program implementation

Financial Stewardship and Accountability A First 5 staff member overseeing fiscal activities safeguards the Commission's financial integrity by managing operations and ensuring compliance with all funding requirements.

Policy and Advocacy A First 5 policy staff member aligns the Commission with key priorities, ensuring responsiveness to legislation, community needs, and opportunities.

Strategic Communications and Public Engagement A First 5 marketing and communications staff member promotes the Commission's mission and programs while building awareness, trust, and engagement.

Executive Director Oversees the strategic planning, funding and evaluation, and budgeting and financial management of a First 5 Commission

First 5 Commissioner Entrusted with critical decision-making responsibilities that shape the direction, impact, and accountability of their Commissions.

Section 3: Your REDI Work

8.Briefly describe a REDI-related initiative, policy, or practice your organization is currently working on (or that you are leading).

9.Where are you in your organization's REDI journey?

Just getting started — laying groundwork

Early implementation — building practices and policies

Active implementation — integrating REDI across our work

Sustaining and deepening — refining and measuring impact

Navigating challenges or setbacks

10.What types of challenges or opportunities do you hope to explore with peers in this community?

11.Which of the following areas are you most interested in strengthening through this community? (Select top two)

Advancing organizational culture and belonging

Embedding equity in policy or funding decisions

Building staff and leadership capacity for REDI

Measuring and communicating equity impacts

Strengthening community partnerships and power sharing

Other (please specify)

Section 4: Experience & Learning Goals

12.Have you participated in an Applied Learning Community or similar reflective space before?

Yes

No

Not sure

13.What do you hope to learn, explore, or contribute through your participation?

Section 5: Baseline Self-Assessment

Section 6: Outcomes

15.Which of these outcomes would feel like success for you by the end of the program year? (Select top two)

Feeling more connected to peers across the Network

Applying new insights or practices in your daily work

Strengthening equity and inclusion within my organization or leadership

Building peer support for navigating REDI challenges

Section 7: Commitment & Capacity

16.The Applied Learning Community meets quarterly (September, December, March, June) for approximately 90 minutes per session. Can you commit to attending all four sessions?

Yes, I can commit to all four

Yes, with the understanding that I may miss one if needed

I'm not sure — I'd like to discuss

17.My supervisor or commission is supportive of my participation.

Yes

Not yet — I plan to discuss with them

Not sure

18.Is there anything you'd like us to know to help support you in having the best possible experience? (Accessibility needs, facilitation preferences, etc.)