Piloted first in our home town of Sebastopol, California, this program affords people a chance to gather together to affirm, strengthen and celebrate that all-too-fleeting sense of community. Not an issue-driven event, Renewing Our Sense of Community is an interactive, engaging and inspiring experience.

It might include

• music / dancing
• art / making a community mural
• speakers / presenters
• discussion circles around themes like 'what makes a neighborhood'
• personal storytelling exploring your community's ethnic heritage and history
• identifying other opportunities for people to connect with each other
• or other activities that are right for your community

Renewing Our Sense of Community is often launched by a Community Center, town or city government, Recreation & Parks, an Arts Center, or a Chamber of Commerce. The event attracts sponsorship of local businesses and other organizations, so its minimal costs are easily covered.

Community Matters provides the basic model, including timelines, task lists, and resources like sample brochures & posters, letters to the editor, and ideas for event activities. You help us understand your community: its history, demographics, and economics; its successes and its challenges. Then, we jointly create a 4-8 hour experience that brings together people of all ages and views to renew their sense of community.