We live in a world where technology can connect us to anyone in a blink of an eye and yet, we rarely look into each other’s eyes. We don’t take the time to really see, know or trust each other.  And we do what humans do when we feel vulnerable and alone: we revert to tribe. It’s friend/enemy, us/them, build walls, hatred, and erect barriers.

There is a better way to live. Thousands of people across the US are taking time to show up for others… all the way up. They are building connections in their communities and weaving a rich social fabric. Being part of just such a community was what lifted New York Times columnist and author David Brooks out of his isolation, inspiring him to found Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute.

Weave supports those who have found a more connected way to live. Weave explores what it means to weave in our schools, our workplaces and every other part of life. Weave’s mission is to invite everyone to start living like a weaver and shift our culture from one that values achievement and individual success to one that finds value in deep relationships and community success.

David shared his story on the TED stage in 2019.

For a deeper look at what’s broken in our society and how to fix it, read our Relationist Manifesto.

The Weave Team

The true faces of Weave are the weavers. They are in every community, quietly creating connection, inspiring hope and leading with love. You can find their stories here. Our team supports weavers and illuminates their way of life to inspire others to join them.

Community Advisors

Weave’s community advisors serve a two-year term providing guidance on Weave’s strategy, programs and communications. They come from diverse backgrounds and communities, and bring both professional skills and rich experience. They share a way of living that inspires trust in their neighbors, welcomes people across differences, and weaves their communities together through discussion and action.

Weave’s Home is the Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most important challenges facing the United States and the world. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners. Weave: The Social Fabric Project reports to the president of Aspen.

Funders and Partners

Culture change requires many to show courage and declare that there is a better way for us to live. Weave’s work is supported by individuals and organizations who believe that changing our culture of hyper-individualism is key to healing the disconnection, isolation and despair in American society and building social trust. Countless people and organizations already work locally to support neighbors who are struggling and to build healthy, connected and inclusive communities. All are partners in this work. Weave has received funding from the following people and organizations.