Across the country, communities are rethinking what it really means to pursue health and opportunity for all. At SENT, this question is not theoretical—it’s practical, urgent, and rooted in the day-to-day experiences of our neighbors.

A recent publication from the Build Healthy Places Network challenges us to shift our collective mindset. Rather than focusing on deficits or what’s missing, the report calls us to change the narrative—to craft stories centered on racial and health equity, shared values, and the assets already present in every community.

This is more than messaging. It’s a movement.

And it’s exactly what we’ve been working toward in Southeast Topeka.

Why Narratives Matter

Narratives are more than stories. They shape policies, influence perceptions, and drive decisions. When the dominant narrative portrays certain neighborhoods as broken or dependent, it undermines trust and investment. Worse, it often erases the strengths, leadership, and resilience that already exist.

The truth is, equity-centered work requires equity-centered storytelling.

“Values drive policy. It’s not a science—it’s about understanding what people value in their communities that begin to shape hearts and minds.”
— Thought Leader Roundtable on Health and Racial Equity (Building Healthy Places Network)

At SENT, we’re reframing the narrative by listening deeply, working collaboratively, and honoring the dignity of every person we serve.

What It Looks Like in Practice at SENT

A Person-Centered, Asset-Based Approach

Our neighbor advocacy services are rooted in relationships. We start by asking, What matters to you? not What’s wrong with you?

Whether someone is navigating the housing system, applying for benefits, or overcoming barriers to employment, our team focuses on strengths, not just needs. This reflects what the BHPN calls an asset-based approach—identifying the wisdom, goals, and talents already present in individuals and neighborhoods.

Bridging Divides Across Systems and People

The “Changing the Narrative” guide reminds us that facts and data don’t build trust—stories and relationships do. SENT’s work is deeply relational. We build bridges between individuals and systems, between hope and access, between the past and a reimagined future.

We host community events, one-on-one conversations, and collaborative problem-solving spaces that intentionally bring together people across differences to listen, learn, and find common ground.

Inclusive Communication, Not Jargon

Health equity work can be full of big terms and buzzwords. But at SENT, we strive to speak in everyday language—clear, kind, and accessible. Whether someone walks into the Southside Filling Station or joins one of our programs, they’re met with language that welcomes, not confuses.

This aligns with the guide’s call to replace jargon with inclusive, values-based language that everyone can connect with.

Belonging Without Othering

One of the most powerful concepts in the BHPN report is the idea of belonging without othering. At SENT, we’re working to create spaces where every person—regardless of background, identity, or circumstance—feels seen, valued, and safe.

That’s why our programs go beyond transactional help. We aim to foster connection, community, and the conditions where people can thrive. Because belonging is health.

Courage to Keep Going

Changing the narrative is not easy. As the report points out, some practitioners can’t even use terms like “equity” or “justice” due to restrictive policies. But the need for change remains. At SENT, we approach this work with courage—naming the barriers, challenging outdated systems, and holding fast to the vision of a thriving community for all.

Let’s Build the Narrative Together

You don’t have to be a policy expert or social worker to make a difference. You just have to care—and take action.

Here’s how you can join us:

• Share this post and help reshape how we talk about our community.
• Donate to support programs that center dignity and equity.
• Volunteer your time or expertise to help neighbors navigate complex systems.
• Tell your story. Lived experience is a powerful tool for change—your voice matters.

Together, we can shift the narrative from scarcity to strength, from disconnection to belonging, and from barriers to bridges.

Let’s keep building the kind of community where everyone is seen, supported, and able to thrive.