F.A.Q.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1. What is unique about this workshop?

This full day workshop incorporates the necessary and critical balance between an individual’s/group’s cultural self-awareness (Session I) and the dynamics of intolerance and racism (Session II). Without an adequate sense of self-awareness, we are destined to repeat our cultural collisions. What is our “world view” and why do we believe/act the way we do? Session II builds on this newly informed awareness and deals with the issue of racism and intolerance. Participants learn tools on how to discuss difficult issues in a safe and structured setting. A variety of teaching forms are used: power point, interactive dialogue, visual images, handouts, and a Southern Poverty Law Center DVD: “In the Shadow of Hate: A History of Intolerance in America.” In the process, groups have found this to be a significant and invaluable team building event.

2. What is the cost?

The cost is totally dependent on the institution requesting the workshop. Much will depend on if your group is not-for-profit. Institutional budgetary issues are also taken into consideration. If at all possible, money must not be an obstacle to hosting this valuable workshop.

3. How long is the workshop and how is it best scheduled?

Because Building Bridges uses a variety of learning methods and is highly engaging for the participants, time varies depending on the size of the group. Usually Session I is 4 hours while Session II is normally 5 hours. Some organizations do the workshop all in one day, providing lunch, while others choose to have it split into two consecutive days. Some groups have left more time in between sessions.

4. What is the optimal size for the workshop?

The optimal size could range from 10-30. Participants would be seated at tables of 4-6 individuals. This allows ample table and general group participation, discussion, and in depth engagement. Adjustments are made for larger group settings.

5. Is it a faith based presentation?

No it is not. BUT there are special adjustments made for faith based organizations focusing on theological implications and biblical mandates.

6. Are there handouts and how are they prepared?

Yes. Your organization will receive a packet of 25+ handouts which are then copied and placed into a folder for participant distribution. It is therefore important to get a somewhat accurate account of attendees.

7. What kinds of groups have hosted Building Bridges? Quite a wide range of organizations and ages: Non-profit organizations (social service, educational, medical, etc.), Juvenile Detention Center staff Drug/Alcohol Rehab staff, School Board, High School and Tech Center students , Community leaders, Farmer’s Market Directors, Faith based organizations, Congregations, Diversity Council, Regional Church leaders, Youth Conference counselors.

8. Are there references that can be consulted?

Yes, by all means, contact information available on request.

9. How do I schedule a workshop?

Contact Alex (see Contact link) with some possible dates. Consider how the Building Bridges workshop would be best conducted for your group: single day, consecutive days, or with more time between sessions. A pre-workshop visit, if at all possible, would be beneficial as this would allow him to get a sense of your group, goals, and the situational setting.