Circles of Change Project, Northeast Province
This fall, thanks to a grant from USAID, 100 community leaders – including elected officials, like local mayors – in Haiti’s north-east province are going through a 6-month Circles of Change training. It is taking place in four communities affected by the introduction of a new industrial park. Community leaders are learning to work together to better manage the change this park will bring with it.
Using an adaptation of the Touchstones Discussion Method, participants in these groups are developing skills in listening, thinking critically, and communicating their thoughts. Over time, groups become more conscious of group dynamics: Who is talking and who is not and how do we make sure a few don’t dominate and that some voices never get heard? Are we tolerant and respectful of people who see things differently? Are we willing to acknowledge our weaknesses and admit that we could be wrong?
People develop skills that help them to better work out problems, find solutions, and to collaborate effectively. During the 6 months, the groups will also plan and realize two Open Space meetings, which are highly participative meetings that help people to work effectively on issues that they determine to be important.
*To view the project proposal, click here.
*To view a summary description of the weekly sessions, click here.
*For blog updates on this project, click here.
*For pictures from this project, click here.
