Mission, Values, Principles, History

Building Understanding (BUDS)

_BUDS Mission, Values, Principles, History

Mission
To foster inclusive, respectful, and just communities BUDS focuses on dispelling prejudice and building understanding by providing experiential learning opportunities to young adults and to those with whom they interact.

Values

Intercultural, interracial, intergenerational exchange
Feedback/Critical evaluation
Equality
Open communication
Personal/Awareness Continuous learning

Humility
Acceptance
Trust-building
Competence
Follow-through

Guiding Principles

We model the mission/vision in our structure, programs and methods.
We embrace personal interaction as a powerful agent for social change and leadership.
We celebrate similarities and honor our differences.
We recognize everyone’s inherent value.
We create a safe environment for honest and open dialogue.
We believe introspection, dialogue, and shared experience Builds Understanding
We further believe the Building Understanding process requires expert leadership.
We seek to have a worldwide impact through the collaborative efforts of members, experts and volunteers.
We believe through education people can grow into positive leadership roles and be engaged in their communities

History
Since 2010, BUDS has united concerned individuals from diverse backgrounds within corporate, academic, and artistic communities and has engaged over 1,000 youth and adults in over 30 programs with the help of more than 20 local, national, and international partners. BUDS is fast becoming an authoritative resource and community asset in delivering compassion and understanding tools, training, and fun.