James meets the inspirational CEO behind the project

Day 2 in San Fran - Its 0600 and we're up early as we have to be at Delancey Street for 0700 this morning to attend a daily morning meeting and have breakfast with the residents. Yesterday was our best day yet, we attended the Delancey Street for a social renewal course. This gave us a great insight into their success and values, which I believe is key to why they do so well. We had a tour of the very impressive facilities and had a presentation from some of the leaders/ residents that led each of their social enterprises i.e removal company, cafe etc.

What I found truly amazing, was that no matter who you spoke to (senior residents, tribe leaders, barbers (supervisor/ peer mentors) new intake (inductions) etc) each resident shared the values and their importance that makes the family work. That's right, I said family! Mimi the CEO and founder lives on site and she's practically adopted 400 residents as her extended family. The admiration and respect they each have for Mimi is amazing, the approach to making the model is based on one big family. They share the responsibilities like a family, look after each other's babies (new intake) and like a family, through peer pressure (each one teach one) and enforcement of those values they bring about change!! Wow, and it seems to be working well as there are currently arround 350 residents. Each works within the model and is desperate to work harder, gain more responsibility and for some after 40 years are still there and considered one of the senior management team, performing a leading role within the organisation.

Can’t wait for today as we are getting involved in some of the businesses and learning firsthand how each one of their social enterprises is doing so well. 

On a personal level I have to say I am disappointed with the food and prices of beer. Average of £2 – 4 a pint and that we actually haven’t found a decent restaurant yet!! We are eating at Delancy Streets restaurant tonight and I have to say I am looking forward to it as so far, they seem to be setting standards well above the rest!!

Posted: 16.07.10 10:31