RebuildInstitute
AT MENGEI SCHOOL
A intensive fellowship designed to cultivate the next generation of community based, ethical redevelopment practitioners
AboutRebuildInstitute
The Rebuild Institute is an innovative initiative dedicated to revitalizing urban communities through the intersection of arts, culture, and strategic urban planning. Founded by Theaster Gates, a globally acclaimed artist and urban planner, the Institute is a platform for fostering creative and sustainable solutions to urban challenges. With its roots in Chicago, the Rebuild Institute draws on the city’s rich history of community engagement and architectural transformation to influence urban redevelopment nationwide
At the core of the Institute’s mission is the belief that art and culture are powerful catalysts for social change. By repurposing neglected spaces into dynamic cultural hubs, the Rebuild Institute aims to create environments that inspire creativity, promote economic growth, and strengthen community ties.
The Institute’s faculty comprises a diverse group of national thought leaders in urban planning, arts, and redevelopment. Renowned figures such as Theaster Gates, Grammywinning artist Corinne Bailey Rae, and leading professors such as Teresa Cordova contribute their expertise to the program. These leaders provide a multidisciplinary perspective, bridging the worlds of art, urbanism, and social practice to reimagine the potential of urban spaces. The Rebuild Institute’s programs emphasize community engagement, sustainability, and equitable development.
Through workshops, public forums, and collaborative projects, the Institute empowers participants to play an active role in shaping their neighborhoods. By prioritizing inclusivity and innovation, the Rebuild Institute stands as a model for cities worldwide seeking to harness the transformative power of culture in urban planning
AboutDorchesterCulturalCorridor
We imagine that the Dorchester Cultural Corridor and the expanded support systems available at The Mengei School will allow us to create new models for organizational leadership This gathering of sites and visionaries, available space for collaboration and learning, and demonstrations of how to start a project at the scale of a living room or basement and bring it to fruition in the community is the kind of work we do well. It is the foundation of our success and an organizational priority to model and share our approaches and expertise as we begin a new phase focused on supporting others to do this work alongside us in our immediate community, across the city, and beyond
ProgramOverview
Over five days, participants delve into:
Workshops: Sessions on community engagement, cultural preservation, archival stewardship and innovative urban planning
Site Visits: Explorations of Rebuild Foundation projects, such as the Stony Island Arts Bank, showcasing successful community revitalization
Collaborative Projects: Team-based activities addressing real-world community challenges
Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with peers and experts in community development
Faculty&GuestSpeakers
The Rebuild Institute brings together distinguished leaders in urban planning, arts, and redevelopment. Here are brief biographies of key faculty members:
THEASTER GATES
Theaster Gates is a renowned American artist and urban planner celebrated for his innovative work in urban revitalization and cultural preservation. He is the founder of the Rebuild Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming urban communities through arts and culture. Gates' projects often repurpose abandoned spaces into vibrant cultural hubs, fostering community engagement and economic development. His interdisciplinary approach bridges art, social practice, and urban planning, earning him international acclaim and numerous awards.
EMILY TALEN
Emily Talen is a Professor of Urbanism at the University of Chicago, specializing in urban design and the relationship between the built environment and social equity. Her research includes the study of New Urbanism and the development of socially mixed neighborhoods. Talen's work contributes to understanding how urban design can promote inclusivity and diversity.
CORRINE BAILEY RAE
Corinne Bailey Rae is a Grammy-winning British singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and introspective songwriting Her self-titled debut album topped the UK charts in 2006, featuring hits like "Put Your Records On " In 2023, she released "Black Rainbows," an album inspired by the Stony Island Arts Bank in Chicago, a space curated by Theaster Gates. Bailey Rae's work often explores themes of identity and heritage, and she actively engages in music education and supports emerging artists.
TERESA CORDOVA
Teresa Córdova is the Director of the Great Cities Institute at the University of Illinois Chicago and a Professor of Urban Planning and Policy. Her research focuses on urban development, community planning, and social justice. Córdova has been instrumental in fostering community engagement and equitable development practices in Chicago.
Curriculum
DAYONE
Travel
Theme: Arrive, Connect & Align
Orientation
Foundations of Community Revitalization
Theme: The Principles of Place Based Development
Participants arrive and settle in Chicago Evening Welcome Reception
Art and Architecture as Catalysts
Theme: Creative Interventions for Community Change
Introduction to the Rebuild Institute's mission and goals Theaster Gates welcome video (to be recorded) "The Power of Place and Purpose " Icebreaker activity to build connections among participants
DAYTWO
Morning Session:
Lecture: "Cultural Preservation as a Tool for Transformation" Case Study: The Dorchester Projects and Stony Island Arts Bank.
Afternoon Session:
Workshop: Mapping Community Assets and Needs Guided tour of the Dorchester Projects
Evening Activity:
Fireside Chat with local artists and community leaders about their collaborative efforts with Rebuild Foundation
DAY THREE
Morning Session:
Panel Discussion: "Art in Action: Stories from the Field " Participants learn from artists who integrate creativity into urban planning
Afternoon Session: Hands-On Lab: Participants co-create public art projects with local artists
Evening Reflection:
Group discussion on integrating creative practices into participants' own communities
Operational Strategies for Sustainability
Theme: Building Systems for Long Term Impact
DAYFOUR
Morning Session:
Workshop: Creating Scalable Models for Community Development Tools and templates for sustainable financial strategies
Afternoon Session:
Panel: Cross-Sector Partnerships for Change Interactive Exercise: Building Your Partnership Map
Evening Networking:
Dinner at Virtue with Chicago-based philanthropists and stakeholders
DAYFIVE
Morning Session:
Workshop: Leading with Vision and Purpose
Participants create a draft vision statement and action plan
Leadership & Legacy
Theme: Empowering Leaders to Build Lasting Change
Integration and Future Planning
Theme: From Learning to Action
Afternoon Session:
Peer feedback on action plans
Closing keynote: "From Vision to Action" by Theaster Gates
Evening Celebration:
Cultural showcase featuring performances by local artists
Certificate ceremony recognizing participants’ contributions and learning
DAY SIX
Morning Session:
Personal Action Plans: Integrating insights into participants' work
Group reflection: Sharing key takeaways and next steps.
Afternoon Session:
Building a Global Network: Launch of the Rebuild Institute Alumni Collective
Closing remarks and participant recognition
Evening:
Departure for those traveling early
DAYSEVEN
Travel Morning departures Participants leave with a toolkit of resources, their action plans, and access to the Rebuild Institute network
CandidateProfile
Ideal candidates are:
Professionals in Community Development: Individuals with experience in urban planning, community development, real estate or related fields (ex. Executive Directors, CEO’s, Director level staff)
Demonstrated Leadership: A history of leading projects or initiatives that impact communities
Commitment to Social Change: A passion for addressing social issues through innovative solutions
Global Perspective: An understanding of community development challenges across different cultural contexts
Timeline
Program Start Date: June 1 (Similar schedule for a September 2025 cohort)
The cohort begins with orientation, scheduled workshops, and program activities.
Participant Onboarding: May 1 – May 31
Provide orientation materials, schedules, and resources
Host a virtual meet-and-greet for selected participants and faculty.
Participant Selection Notification: April 15 – April 30
Notify selected participants
Provide acceptance letters and information about next steps
Application Review and Selection Process: March 15 – April 14
Review all applications.
Conduct interviews or supplementary evaluation for shortlisted candidates. Finalize the participant list
Application Deadline: March 14
All applications must be submitted by this date for consideration.
Application Period: February 15 – March 14
Open applications for the June cohort
Host informational webinars or promotional events to drive applications
Program Marketing and Outreach: December 15 – January 14
Develop and execute a marketing plan, including social media campaigns, email outreach, and partnerships with community organizations. Create promotional materials, including a program brochure and an application guide
Qualifications+Experience
MSU | APPLE DEVELOPER ACADEMY
Gilbert Family Foundation 2024-Present
Operations School was selected to augment their existing Apple Developer Academy program by adding six months of our proprietary, operations based curriculum. Program participants receive intensive training in the areas of systems, automation, delegation and scaling strategies for their businesses. Additionally, OPSIDIA provides 1:1 technical assistance to support the small businesses while providing capacity building support.
Reference: Theodore Caldwell Renaissance Manager tc@msu.edu
CAPITAL CONNECT & BLK PRINT
Michigan Black Business Alliance (MBBA) 2023-Present
Operations School was selected to augment MBBA’s existing Capital Connect and BLK Print programs by adding four and two weeks respectively of our proprietary Get Your Business Legit curriculum. Program participants will receive intensive training in the areas of systems, automation, delegation and scaling strategies for their businesses. Additionally, OPSIDIA provides 1:1 technical assistance to support the small businesses while providing capacity building support.
Reference: Kai Bowman Chief Operating Officer Kai@mdbba.com 770-733-8333
EMPOWER PROGRAM
Lansing Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) 2023-Present
After a nationwide RFP search, Operations School | OPSIDIA was selected to design and entrepreneurial capacity building program to suit the needs of 25 BIPOC owned businesses in Lansing, Michigan. Startups were provided a dedicated Project Manager who worked with the client to develop a wholistic approach to solving current business challenges. Contracted services included bookkeeping, accounting, legal services, project management, marketing/communications and more. Clients received 1:1 and group coaching support both online and in-person.
Reference:
Aurelius Christian Corridor & Commercial Development Specialist aurelius@lansingedc.com 517.331.2773
TECHTOWN INCUBATOR
TechTown Detroit 2019-2022
Since 2019, Operations School | OPSIDIA has partnered with TechTown Detroit to develop a comprehensive curriculum to support minority and BIPOC led startups. Startups were provided with a dedicated Project Manager who worked with the client to develop a wholistic approach to solving current business challenges. Contracted services included bookkeeping, accounting, legal services, project management, marketing/communications and more. Clients received 1:1 and group coaching support both online and in-person.
Reference:
Dr. Marlo Rencher President
Detroit Means Business mrencher@degc.org (313) 574-6323
CaseStudy
OPSIDIA partnered with the Lansing Economic Development Corporation to develop the Empower Program, which provided targeted education and technical assistance to 12 small businesses in Lansing. This initiative aimed to empower local entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and knowledge necessary to enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and achieve long-term sustainability.
GOALS OF THE EMPOWER PROGRAM
Strengthen the operational foundations of participating businesses
Equip business owners with systems-based approaches to improve efficiency
Provide personalized technical assistance to address specific challenges
Foster a community of practice among Lansing’s entrepreneurs for ongoing collaboration and support
PROGRAM DELIVERY
The program unfolded in three phases:
Assessment & Customization: Each business underwent a thorough assessment to identify operational strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities.
Education Modules: Tailored workshops focused on critical operational areas, including process optimization, financial management, team development, and leveraging technology for efficiency.
Technical Assistance: Businesses received one-on-one coaching and hands-on support to implement customized strategies.
IMPACT AND OUTCOMES
Operational Improvements: All 12 businesses reported enhanced efficiency and clarity in their operations.
Financial Growth: 85% of participants noted measurable improvements in cash flow management and profitability within six months of completing the program.
Confidence Boost: Business owners expressed increased confidence in managing and scaling their enterprises.
Community Building: A peer network emerged, allowing businesses to share resources, collaborate on projects, and continue their learning journeys together.
r StatementofWork
The purpose of this Statement of Work (SOW) is to outline the proposed scope of services and deliverables required for facilitation of the Rebuild Institute.
OPSIDIA "Facilitator" will be responsible for overseeing the successful implementation of designated modules of the program, ensuring effective communication, coordination, collaboration among stakeholders. OPSIDIA will oversee the delivery of (2) one week sessions over a 12 month period.
Objectives:
The objectives of the program facilitation are as follows:
Collaborate with Theaster Gates to develop a proprietary curriculum with rights retained to TG and Rebuild Institute
Develop the application, review and selection process for participants and organizations
Oversee the schedule development of (2) one week sessions over a 12 month period including recruiting, scheduling and coordination of faculty, speakers, and guests
Serve as the primary point of contact for the Rebuild Institute during program delivery
Facilitate the recruitment, selection and payment of vendors, contractors and partners
Facilitate meetings, workshops, and training sessions as required
Provide regular reports and updates on program status and achievements
Scope of Work:
Facilitator will perform the following tasks:
Program Planning:
Collaborate with Theaster Gates to define program goals, objectives, and timelines. Develop a detailed program plan, including activities, milestones, and resources required. Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and develop a monitoring and evaluation framework.
Stakeholder Management:
Establish effective communication channels and ensure regular updates are provided to stakeholders.
Address stakeholder concerns, issues, and conflicts in a timely and professional manner.
Program Implementation:
Oversee the execution of program activities according to the defined plan.
Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
Facilitate regular team meetings to review progress, address challenges, and provide guidance.
r StatementofWork
Communication and Reporting:
Develop and maintain effective communication channels among stakeholders
Prepare regular reports on program status, accomplishments, and challenges
Prepare presentations and facilitate workshops and training sessions as required
Evaluation and Improvement:
Conduct program evaluations to assess effectiveness and impact
Collect feedback from stakeholders and incorporate improvements into program implementation
Identify lessons learned and best practices to inform future program initiatives
Deliverables:
The following deliverables are expected from Facilitator:
Program plan, including goals, objectives, activities, milestones, and timelines
Regular status reports on program progress, accomplishments, and challenges
Documentation of meetings, workshops, and training sessions, including minutes and action items
Evaluation reports assessing program effectiveness, impact, and lessons learned
Timeline and Schedule:
The program design services will commence on or around January 1, 2025 and continue until December 31, 2025. The specific schedule and timeline for deliverables will be mutually agreed upon by the program facilitator and the client.
Payment Terms:
Pricing for program licensing fee, facilitation and technical assistance support is $75,000.00 per year which includes the facilitation of a Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 cohort. A flat fee invoice of $7,500.00 per month will be forwarded to Rebuild Foundation via Bill.com in (10) installments. Invoices will be submitted on the first of each month. OPSIDIA has the right to withhold delivery of deliverables pending receipt of outstanding invoices. Should you terminate the engagement prior to its completion, we will only bill you for the professional fees and expenses incurred to that date.
A retainer payment of $7,500.00 will be due at the signing of contract, or 30 days prior to the start of programming. A report outlining the service hours and work performed each month will be included with the invoice. All future invoices will be due upon receipt.
r StatementofWork
Schedule:
Facilitator will work with leadership to finalize program dates to support in-person program delivery in Chicago, IL. It is understood that each session will consist of seven days of programming, not including pre and post planning time.
Anticipated Start Date:
January 2025
Confidentiality and Intellectual Property:
The Facilitator shall treat all confidential information obtained during the engagement as strictly confidential. Any intellectual property developed or provided by the program facilitator during the project shall remain the property of the client unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.
Termination:
Either party may terminate this agreement with prior written notice if either party fails to fulfill its obligations outlined in this SOW. In such cases, termination provisions as agreed upon in the separate agreement or contract shall apply.
r EvaluationMetrics
OPSIDIA will communicate results of the program through profiles of each participant and include visuals, photography and videography to support the journey. Case studies will be created to highlight participants who are successfully navigating the program.
Process Indicators
(Measure the program’s activities and outputs)
Outcome Indicators
(Measure whether the program is achieving the expected effects/changes in the short, intermediate, and long term)
Quantitative Metrics
How many hours of programming were deployed?
Did programming reach intended number of leaders?
How did participants rate the quality of the programming?
How responsive was the curriculum to identified needs?
Were the participants more confident after attending this program?
Did the program build capacity to continue similar efforts in the future? Did the program build long term relationships?
Surveys
Baseline assessments
Observation
Analysis of current programming
Qualitative Metrics
Interviews
Focus groups
Observation