The 250th anniversary of America's independence presents an opportunity to bridge our political divides rather than deepen them. This episode of Giving Ventures explores Be the People, a nationwide civic effort that aims to resurrect shared American ideals and foster community-driven solutions that last. Peter talks with Sarah Cross, senior vice president at Stand Together about how leveraging the 250th with storytelling and strategic partnerships can rekindle a collective American identity. Sarah breaks down practical ways philanthropists of all sizes can support this long-term movement and emphasizes that lasting change requires a bottom-up approach, with local communities driving the narrative and solutions.