What are Study Circles?

When people talk productively with each other and find ways to work together to solve public problems, the results can be powerful.

Direct change happens when people gain new understanding of an issue, and form new relationships – across the barriers of race, background, political ideology, income, and geography. Individuals or small-groups commit to action. Some people take their new ideas and approaches back to their organizations, and sow the seeds of institutional change.

Sometimes, people launch new community projects or collaborations. Or, they decide to join efforts already under way in the community. When government is part of the organizing, and elected officials take part in the study circles, this paves the way for more effective policy making and collaborative work.

Some ideas for change that are generated in study circles are more complex and take longer to develop. These include changes such as new policies, new decisions, changes in the allocation of resources, and new processes for involving the public in solving problems.

Upcoming Study Circle Dates

Saturday, January 27th 8:30 - 4:30 - Facilitator Training

Mid-February - Study Circles Kick-Off

February 11th - March 12th - Study Circles meet

Contact Gwen Lauer

Study Circles Resource Center website