Generation Circle

Generation Circle Storytelling Anchorage Alaska

The roots of Generation Circle can be traced back to 2019, as a storytelling gathering that brought together seven women from seven different generations, each sharing a personal story centered around a meaningful theme. These gatherings were filled with uplifting and inspiring moments, where attendees sang, laughed, cried, and listened with open hearts.

These gatherings laid the foundation for the next chapters of Generation Circle.


Shifting the Focus: Wellness Beyond the Individual

Over time, those involved with Nature Song have come to understand that while wellness is often viewed as an individual journey, true growth flourishes through interconnected relationships. In addition to Forest Collective, a community for families, Generation Circle is a collective framework designed to cultivate relational bonds, whether through intimate pairs, triads, small groups of 6 to 8 people, or larger gatherings of 20 to 80 people. Each type of relationship structure brings unique benefits to our lives—pairs offer deep, personal connection; triads encourage diverse perspectives; small groups foster collaboration and shared learning; and larger gatherings expand our sense of community and collective wisdom.


Building at the Speed of Trust

Through our past practices within Nature Song, we’ve learned that trust is the foundation of thriving relationships. This insight now shapes the vision for Generation Circle, which creates opportunities for trust to grow naturally by providing spaces where people can step outside their usual routines and connect with like-minded individuals seeking growth, connection, and mutual support.

Within Generation Circle, a participant might connect with someone who shares their love of nature, leading to weekly hikes that deepen their bond and personal growth. Or they might find a mentor from a different stage of life who inspires and supports them in developing a new program offering, either within Generation Circle or the broader community. These experiences are designed to nurture trust, allowing relationships to flourish and creating a foundation for collective thriving.


We All Play a Role

Generation Circle reimagines the traditional approach to wellness by empowering the community to shape its own programs. Rooted in trust, commitment, creativity, and intention, it creates a space where those with inspiring ideas—yet hesitant to share—can explore them in a safe and supportive environment. It also welcomes individuals with established practices or businesses to share their skills and wisdom, focusing on authentic connection and mutual reciprocity rather than marketing. This allows participants to direct their energy and time toward pursuing what they love, instead of self-promotion, while naturally finding their community.

What sets Generation Circle apart is that every exchange is grounded in meaningful relationships of reciprocity, ensuring everyone has a place to both give and receive. Together, we are shifting away from a scarcity mindset and competition, moving instead toward collaboration, connection, and support. By building on these foundations, we unlock extraordinary potential for growth and expand what we can accomplish collectively, creating a thriving, dynamic community where possibilities are boundless.


Seeds of Ideas:
Let’s Build Together


Below is a list of project ideas for potential collaboration or opportunities for you to join and participate For more information about this vision, refer here and here.

 

Past Generation Circle Events


Self-Love
On February 22, 2020

Storytellers

Team Teen: Cassidy Austin Merlino
Team 20: Melanie Leydon
Team 30: Kenzie Snyderman
Team 40: Itzel Zagal
Team 50: Dana Dardis
Team 60: Karen Brook
Team 70: Gretchen T. Bersch
MC: Samantha Feemster

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"From You I Receive"
Generation Circle Participants - Led by Shirley Staten on October 5, 2019 -

Festival of Cultural Stories Anchorage Alaska Generation Circle Storytelling Workshop

Festival of Cultural Stories
January 25, 2020 -
Organized by Keys to Life
Workshop Theme: Courage, Strength and Inspiration

Thank you to Storytellers:

Gabriela Olmos
Verne Borner
Barbara Taylor

MC: Samantha Feemster


Living an Authentic Life
October 5, 2019

Special Thanks to our storytellers!

Team Teen: Selah Judge
Team 20: Brook Cinocco
Team 30: Betsi Oliver (not pictured)
Team 40: Jennifer Andrulli
Team 50: Corinthia Rabb
Team 60: Amerissis Feliz
Team 70: Shirley Staten
MC: Samantha Feemster

October 5th Storyteller Line-up: Selah Judge (teen), Brooke Cinocco (20s), Betsi Oliver (30s - Not pictured), Jennifer Andrulli (40s), Corinthia Rabb (50s), Amerissis Feliz (60s), and Shirley Staten (70s)