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About UsFounded in 2016, the Catalyst Project, Inc. is a community of mutual support for mothers and their young children based upon the inherent dignity of all members. Up to three single mothers and their children who have experienced homelessness reside in long term community-style housing on Madison's east side, with trauma informed relationships serving as the basis of this community. Within walking distance of the local elementary school, a community center, a number of parks and a clinic, the location has much to offer. Participation in Catalyst Project includes housing, but it is not a "housing project."
In this two-generation approach to capacity building, each participant- child and adult- has access to collaborative problem-solving, trauma informed reflective mentoring and client-specific therapeutic intervention that may include art, movement (i.e. yoga), community service, sports, the pursuit of educational and/or employment interests and certainly, play! The Catalyst Project empowers mothers to be the parents they want to be and to take advantage of the unparalleled brain development that occurs in the early years. Research shows that there is no better way to resolve unjust realities that stem from our society's racist systems than in providing nurturing early experiences. It is intended that the strength that comes from a stable and positive environment will elevate the individual and collective voice of these young families so as to guide not only their own paths, but the direction of society. The Catalyst Project is founded upon the belief that the wisdom of those grossly mistreated by our society and its discriminatory systems is essential to creating a society that serves all of its people. |
Purpose |
We partner with mothers to create the physical, mental and emotional space for them and their children to access stability and amplify their voices, while working together to dismantle systems of oppression which have led us to this point.
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Vision |
A sustainable funding model will support articulation of pathways to increasing independence through members' input, design, research and real-world experience.
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