On Wednesday, June 18, an intergenerational group of 25 people gathered at Salve Regina University to engage in meaningful conversations at a World Café hosted by RENEWport and The David and Carolyn Brodsky Chair in U.S. Constitutional Culture and Democracy. Gene Thompson-Grove, facilitator and transformational learning coach, moderated the event.
Participants focused on a series of questions about the community in Newport, such as:
· In Newport groups you are part of, when have you felt, ‘I belong. I matter?’
· How do shared values or experiences shape your sense of connection?
· What does your ideal Newport community look like?
· What is one commitment you can make today to create an ideal community in Newport?
The “World Café” method facilitates conversation and connection; participants discuss a question in a small group, then move on to a new table to consider the next question with a different group of people. This approach exposes each participant to as many points of view as possible. The room buzzed with energy and conversations focused on civic engagement.
Leah Spengler, Salve student and Brodsky fellow, said, “This World Café allowed me to go beyond the borders of Salve to hear stories, forge connections and brainstorm change with a diverse group of leaders in the Newport community. This event left me feeling capable, connected, and hopeful that the changes we envision for Newport are possible when we join together.”
Participants said they found the experience significant and asked when the next World Café would be held. Attendee David Mirkin said, “I connected with several individuals who, like me, are looking for something here in Newport they can feel passionate about and gain the motivation and opportunity to take action. Another outcome was listening to people express issues adversely impacting them personally and realizing that I have the ability to help through my own personal acts.”
Jennie Batcher, Salve student and Brodsky fellow, said, “It was wonderful to hear the different experiences from people around Newport and how it shapes their thoughts and values. The variety of people in Newport and the connections forged with those similar and different from us creates our unique community. I love meeting new people and hearing the issues they care about.” Another World Café will be held in August, exact date to be announced. Please visit RENEWport’s website for more information: www.renewport.org.
