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  • Your partner in driving positive change at work.

    Our tailored consulting and capacity building support services are designed to help nonprofits, government agencies, and organizations create inclusive, equitable, and welcoming environments.

  • What We Do

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    Dismantling Oppressive Systems

    TooREL Institute for Social Change (TISC) is a collective of subject matter

    experts, strategists, thought leaders, healers and facilitators devoted to dismantling systems and structures that deem some people deserving of a violence-free life, while others are harmed, overlooked, dismissed, and mistreated in their communities and workplaces.

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    Addressing Root Causes of Inequity

    TISC goes beyond typical Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) approaches and deepens into a Roots, Equity, and Liberation (REL™) framework. The collective utilizes the REL framework to confront and address root causes of racial inequalities and institutional racism in order to craft culture change plans, that prioritize self-actualization, accountability, healing and wellness as key aspects of achieving sustainable transformation.

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    Reimagining Leadership Culture

    Our work centers on cultivating Black-centered environments and workplaces where leadership can truly thrive. We reimagine leadership development as a liberatory practice—rooted in wellness, healing, cultural awareness, community care, and collective liberation. For us, leadership is not just a role—or a title—but a way of being that must be embedded in everyday policies, practices, and norms. Traditional "leadership development" models often fall short for individuals navigating complex realities. We're creating new pathways where transformative leadership can emerge, grow, and sustain.

  • Going Beyond Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion to Create Welcoming Environments for All People

    We offer tailored consulting and capacity building support services for nonprofits, government agencies and organizations committed to dismantling unfair practices and systems of oppression in order to create inclusive, equitable and welcoming work environments and communities. We believe that every community and organization have the capacity to create an environment and culture that values diverse backgrounds, perspectives and lived experiences; and every individual has the innate ability to be an active participant in the necessary activities to support that philosophy.

     

    We meet each client where they are. We listen to our clients’ desires, concerns, challenges, and strengths, and co-create a culture shift plan that reflects their commitment and meet their needs.

  • Our Primary Service Offerings

    The Roots Equity & Liberation Project

    Over a multiyear phased process, the team works with your organization to implement all aspects of the TooREL framework. Phases include: 1) Assessing Readiness, 2) Preparation,

    3) Implementation, 4) Evaluation,

    5) Reflect & Reset, and 6) Celebrate, Recharge & Rest.

    The Collaborative Leadership Program

    This is a transformational program created by-and-for people of color—leaders navigating complex systems and the impacts of oppression. This is a sacred space for growth, healing, stretching, authentic connections, strategizing, and intention setting. We empower new, emerging, and seasoned leaders to rise with purpose, authenticity, and resilience. Program activities include online learning, a wellness retreat, group coaching, peer support, and networking. Aspiring allies committed to advancing equity and the leadership of people of color are also welcomed to participate.

    Signature Trainings

    We offer training focused on common workplace challenges and issues in leadership that stem from inequalities and trauma in the workplace. The topics covered in these trainings include workplace wellness, fostering resilience, navigating difficult conversations, building and maintaining adaptability, and personal and organizational accountability.

  • Past and Current Collaborative Partners

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    "Arlene Vassell, the founding director, has a proven track record of dedication and expertise in this field that serve as a testament to the organization's potential for creating meaningful and lasting impact. Her unwavering commitment to addressing the root causes of racial inequality, coupled with a strategic approach to center Black joy, Black voices, Black brilliance, and Black communities, positions the Toorel Institute for Social Change, Inc. as a trailblazer in the work of undoing racism and its root causes.  I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the deep skills, wisdom, passion, and dedication that the founding director brings to this cause. Her collaborative spirit, strategic vision, and tireless efforts have already made a significant impact in our shared journey toward liberation and justice. I encourage individuals, organizations, and communities to tap into the expertise of the Toorel Institute for Social Change, Inc. as a guiding force in their efforts toward justice and, ultimately,

    our shared liberation."

    Heidi Notario, M.A.

    Chief of Education & Access, Caminar Latino/Latinos United for Peace & Equity; Co-Founder and Owner, Instituto Mosaico

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