OUR STORY
Why A Cord of 3 Strands: NEB?
The inspiration for A Cord of 3 Strands comes from Ecclesiastes 4:9–12. It's a passage that reminds us that we are stronger together. We can support one another, strengthen one another, and accomplish more collaboratively than we can alone. The passage concludes with the powerful imagery that “a cord of three strands is not easily broken.”
“A cord of three strands is not easily broken.”
Ecclesiastes 4:12
That truth is the foundation of A Cord of 3 Strands.
Through years of working with children, families, schools, communities, churches, and in academia, we have seen firsthand that "stronger together" is more than a feel-good phrase. It is an intentional way of creating lasting support around people—especially those who may be most vulnerable.
For us, that means supporting youth across the different areas of their lives while also supporting the adults who surround them. It means intentionally creating spaces where generations can learn from one another and where their gifts, experiences, creativity, and wisdom can be shared.
We believe that when people are seen, supported, connected, and given opportunities to grow together, individuals and communities become stronger.
By the grace of God, we hope to continue building those kinds of connections—one strand at a time.
MEET OUR TEAM
A joy-filled team of life-long learners, creatives, educators, and people of faith. We are united by a passion for serving others and creating meaningful connections across generations.
Dr. Y’Shanda Rivera is an educator, researcher, and community advocate with more than 25 years of experience across K–12, higher education, and community-based settings. She holds a Ph.D. in Learning Sciences from Northwestern University.
As a co-founder of A Cord of 3 Strands, she brings her passion for education, creativity, community partnerships, and intergenerational learning to creating spaces where people can connect and grow together.
Y'Shanda Rivera, Ph.D.
President/Co-Founder
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS
We’re grateful for the community partners who help us create spaces to learn, create, connect, and grow.
Bellwood Senior Housing
Teresa Roldán Apartments On Paseo Boricua