Jackson Grown is a community dedicated to igniting creativity, collaboration, and the power of bold solutions. At Jackson Grown, we believe that innovative ideas can come from anywhere, and that the most impactful breakthroughs often begin with unconventional thinking. Our mission is to create a space where challenges are met with curiosity, and every solution—whether simple or “out there”—is considered with an open mind.
Meeting Focus: Building Bold Innovations
This Jackson Grown meeting was centered around the idea of building bold innovations. In our session Friday, December 6th, every Fellow brought a challenge they are planning to focus on, and together we brainstormed solutions that push boundaries. No idea is too big, too small, or too unconventional. By embracing diverse perspectives and encouraging creative risk-taking, we aim to uncover fresh solutions that make a real difference.
The Meeting Structure: Collaborative Problem Solving
To keep things dynamic and engaging, our meeting followed a structured format designed to maximize participation and the flow of ideas. Here's how the session worked:
Challenge Presentation: Each Fellow was called to the podium by the mediator, mentor, Mark Cancia and then they pitched their challenge to the group, explaining why it matters to them and what motivates them to solve it. This helped everyone understand the problem and the driving force behind it.
Solution Storming: After each pitch, the group had time to propose solutions. Everyone was encouraged to suggest ideas—no matter how simple, complex, or unconventional. This free flow of ideas created an open environment where even the most “out there” solutions can be explored.
Capturing Ideas: As ideas were shared, the fellows write down the presenting fellow’s name, challenge, and possible solution ensuring that every suggestion is documented and understood. After the brainstorming session, the Fellow that presented writes down the proposed solutions in their Jackson Grown workbook. These ideas will serve as the starting point for further exploration and implementation.
Next Steps: Once each Fellow received a variety of solutions, they reflected on the suggestions, refined them, and decided which ideas to explore further. Over time, we’ll track progress, iterate on solutions, and continue the cycle of collaboration.
Each student had the opportunity to present their challenge and receive feedback, with examples of discussions covering topics such as safe driving practices, creating safe spaces for youth, and supporting young people after foster care.
Highlight One: Safe Driving Practices Challenge
During this session, one Fellow presented a challenge focused on Safe Driving Practices. This is a pressing issue that impacts our communities every day. The Fellow explained that improving safe driving habits is essential to reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road.
Several potential solutions were proposed by the group:
- Drivers Education: Strengthening education programs to ensure that new drivers are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to drive safely.
- Repeated Testing: Implementing periodic testing for drivers to ensure ongoing competence and safety awareness, even after they’ve passed the initial driving test.
- Less Distractions: Encouraging drivers to minimize distractions, such as using mobile phones while driving, to improve focus on the road.
- More Enforcement on Safe Driving: Increasing enforcement of traffic laws to deter unsafe behaviors and promote safer driving habits.
- Campaigns on the Risks of Unsafe Driving: Launching public awareness campaigns to educate people on the consequences of unsafe driving, including accidents, legal issues, and long-term impacts on families and communities.
These ideas generated a lot of conversation and provided the Fellow with a variety of solutions to consider and implement moving forward.
Highlight Two: Safe Spaces for Youth Challenge
Another Fellow presented a challenge surrounding the need for Safe Spaces for Youth. The challenge highlighted the lack of safe, engaging places for young people to gather and express themselves in a supportive environment. This issue is vital in creating healthier communities where youth can thrive without facing the risks of isolation or unsafe spaces.
One standout solution proposed was Upgrading and Expanding the Old Hickory Mall in Jackson, Tennessee for Youth Spaces. The group discussed how transforming underutilized spaces in the mall into dedicated areas for youth could help create a sense of belonging and encourage positive social interactions. The potential upgrades could include:
- Designated Hangout Areas: Creating safe and comfortable spaces where young people can relax, socialize, and interact in a supervised environment.
- Activity Zones: Setting up areas for youth to engage in recreational activities, such as gaming, sports, or creative workshops, fostering both fun and skill development.
- Youth-Led Events: Organizing events that allow young people to take the lead and showcase their talents, whether through music, art, or entrepreneurship.
- Access to Support Services: Providing resources such as counseling, career advice, or mentorship to help youth with their personal development and future goals.
These ideas sparked a lively discussion on how we can better support young people and create spaces where they feel heard, valued, and empowered.
Highlight Three: Supporting Youth After Foster Care
One of the most impactful challenges presented was the need for Support After Kids Age Out of the Foster Care System. Many young people face significant challenges after leaving the foster care system, including a lack of stable housing, limited access to education or employment opportunities, and the absence of a supportive network.
Several solutions were proposed to help provide the necessary guidance and support:
- Having Mentors with You While You Grow Up: The group emphasized the importance of having mentors who can guide youth as they grow and transition into adulthood. This ongoing relationship could provide emotional support, help navigate life’s challenges and offer advice on key decisions.
- Going to Someone You Might Never Have Known Would Help: Another idea was connecting youth with people who may not have been part of their lives before but who are willing to offer support as they move forward. This could include community members, professionals, or volunteers who can provide resources, advice, or just a listening ear when needed.
These solutions highlighted the importance of mentorship and community support in empowering young people to succeed, even after they leave the foster care system. By creating a network of individuals who care and are willing to help, we can give these young people a much-needed foundation for success.
Why Bold Ideas Matter
At Jackson Grown, we understand that innovation doesn’t come from playing it safe. The most powerful solutions often stem from thinking outside the box and challenging the status quo. Whether your idea feels simple or revolutionary, we value all contributions. Our goal is to create a space where bold thinking thrives, and where the collective power of the group helps turn great ideas into real, actionable solutions.
