Stories of Local Activism #14
Racial Trustbuilding
Creating Community Dialog for Reconciliation and Responsibility
Troup County, Georgia
Racial Trustbuilding, Inc., is a community-based nonprofit organization in Troup County, Georgia, focused on strengthening relationships across racial lines and addressing historical and contemporary barriers to opportunity. The initiative began in 2015 when local leaders sought to create a structured process for community dialogue about race, reconciliation, and shared responsibility.
The organization brings together residents, civic leaders, educators, and community stakeholders to engage in honest conversations about race and to develop solutions that strengthen community trust and cooperation. Through training workshops, public dialogue events, and collaborative initiatives, Racial Trustbuilding works to cultivate understanding and build a more inclusive community.
Founded by former Troup County Commission Chair Ricky Wolfe and former Georgia State Representative Carl Von Epps, Jr., the initiative began with facilitated dialogue sessions led by experts in reconciliation and community trust-building. These early sessions encouraged participants to confront difficult historical truths and explore pathways toward reconciliation and mutual accountability.
Today, the organization continues to expand its programs and community engagement efforts, guided by a volunteer board and professional leadership.
Mission
To bridge the racial divide in Troup County through trust-building, research, community collaboration, and action in order to remove barriers that prevent full access to opportunities for all.
Racial Trustbuilding in Action
What They Do
1. Trustbuilding Workshops
Facilitated training sessions (Level I and Level II) bring together diverse community members to explore racial history, bias, and reconciliation through open and honest dialogue.
2. Community Dialogue and Education
Public discussions, speaker events, and book talks help residents examine the historical and social dynamics that shape racial relationships today. These sessions encourage reflection, learning, and shared understanding.
3. Civic and Community Events
Programs such as the Trustbuilding Breakfast Series and community forums provide spaces for residents, local leaders, and institutions to engage directly on issues affecting the community.
4. Collaboration and Research
The organization works with community partners, educators, and civic leaders to identify barriers to opportunity and develop strategies that foster equitable access and community well-being.
Racial Trustbuilding’s programs focus on dialogue, education, and community engagement.
Theory of Change
Dialogue + Trust Building + Community Collaboration →
Stronger Relationships and Equal Opportunity
The organization’s work is grounded in the belief that dialogue and sustained community engagement can transform relationships and lead to collective action that builds trust, reduces racial barriers and promotes equitable access to opportunity.
IMPACT
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More than 300 residents have participated in trust-building dialogues and workshops designed to foster honest discussion about race and reconciliation.
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Ongoing workshops and public events continue to expand community participation and awareness around racial trust and reconciliation.
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Executive Director Chalton Askew received Troup County’s Jane Fryer Award 2022 in recognition of exemplary dedication, work ethic, and community service.
Take Action
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Share this story with your network.
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Attend workshops/Join Community Events: participate in trustbuilding training sessions and community dialogue events.
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Support the mission: contribute to programs that foster dialogue, education, and collaboration across communities.
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Follow Their Work: Facebook
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Visit Their Website: https://www.racialtrustbuilding.org
