At a time of significant division and distrust in this nation, we really need people who can build bridges across lines of difference. The process of building bridges – of building understanding, trust, and cooperation with people who may look, think, or express themselves differently than you do – is not something that comes naturally to most people. It’s like learning to dance. It requires us to step outside our comfort zones, to share vulnerably and authentically, to listen without judgment, and develop empathy and appreciation for those who have walked a different path. In short, building bridges, whether one on one or in group settings, is a skill that must be learned and practiced.
We hope you can join us for our annual Bridge Builder Leadership retreat at the beautiful Green Lake Conference Center (Wisconsin) on Saturday, October 3rd from 10am – 4pm to learn how to build bridges for change in your own community, workplace, or congregation. The all-day training, in grateful partnership with the Wisconsin Council of Churches will include engaging content, small group reflections, role-play exercises, and much more. Click here to learn more about our training content, and see below for an overview of the day. It is our hope participants leave feeling renewed and empowered to use these skills in their own lives, and inspired to partner with us to develop Becoming Neighbors programming in their own community, workplace, or congregation.
Cost is $25 to cover food. Participants can register online below, and contact us with any questions.
Nice, affordable rooms are also available for those wanting to stay overnight (Friday or Saturday night stays available). Reservations for rooms can be made by calling the conference center at 920-294-3323.
Bridge Builder Leadership Retreat Overview:
10am – Welcome, Purpose, Agenda
10:15am – Getting to Know Each Other/Becoming Neighbors Exercise
11am – What is Bridge-Building/Mindset of Coming to the Dance Floor of Diversity
11:30am – Group Reflection
12pm – Tips for Building Bridges (in one on one and small group settings)
12:30pm – Deep Listening and Dwelling in Stories
1pm – Lunch
1:45pm – Introducing Becoming Neighbors (in communities and congregations)
2:30pm – Being With vs. Doing For Reflection
3:15pm – Fishbowl Exercise
3:30pm – Building a Network and Next Steps
4pm – Final Reflections and Survey