Prior to and after leaving the seminary (Lutheran)I became disillusioned with the church as a vehicle for change. Having met Saul Alinsky during college I was fascinated with him & his approach to organizing. Though he died before I could see him in Chicago. I was introduced to Tom Gaudette who directed me to Shel Trapp, though the two of them were estranged at the the time. Shel became my mentor & boss. I learned more about community organizing and coalition building from Shel than any other graduate degree could have taught me.

How to listen, create opportunities for people to know one another and build power.

Being involved with the national campaigns of National People's Action that led to the passage of the HMDA & CRA.

Being involved with local disabilities organizing that led to the ADA.