Rooted in Community

United in Strategy

Strategize > Organize > Mobilize

The United States is facing a crisis of democracy. No one should be left to fend for themselves – especially community leaders, local officials, and organizations who are under attack. The overwhelming sentiment right now is – what do we do?

States at the Core (STAC) was created by experts with direct experience in dealing with authoritarianism to meet this moment.

STAC is a partner that fills in resource gaps for community leaders and organizers across the country who are facing everything from white nationalist rallies to school board takeovers to political violence. These issues are beyond the scope and capacity of most local organizations.

We step in with rapid and customized support for front-line groups building strategic, tailored, and bold plans so they can take courageous action.

Meet The Team

  • JILL V. GARVEY

    CO-DIRECTOR

  • DARREN SANDOW

    CO-DIRECTOR

  • BEN BOWENS

    SR. COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGIST

  • JESSICA ACEE

    SENIOR ORGANIZER

Advisory Board Members

  • ERIC K. WARD

    CO-FOUNDER & ADVISORY BOARD CHAIR

  • NORA RANNEY

    ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

  • ANDREW SMITH

    ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

  • TED WANG

    ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

“Since the STAC team has begun working with me and other community leaders, I feel supported.

Where I once felt alone, I am now hopeful that together we will implement a plan of action to successfully push hate back into the margins.”

-Randi Hewit, Community Foundation President

“Having our community infiltrated by white Christian nationalists can incite fear in our people. Working with STAC has dramatically lowered the temperature of fear and given us the confidence we need to respond.”

- John Deane, Community Leader 

“This moment requires a different response. It’s new terrain which requires new tools. STAC has shown up for our community. They are guiding us through this new terrain. They are providing access to a new toolbox and together we are building the long-term infrastructure to win.”

– Stephanie Teatro, Nashville community member and STAC partner

“Having STAC step in to build up our capacity and expertise while we are helping local communities respond enables us to build a more proactive resistance.” 

- Lisa Sherman Luna, Executive Director, Tennessee Immigrant Rights and Refugee Coalition 

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