Training Institute
Building Authentic Relationships Across Cultural Divides
Our communities consist of people from many different backgrounds that shape the way each of us makes decisions, interacts with others, and impacts our ability to thrive. Learning about our own culture and biases can greatly inform our ability to interact with people from very different backgrounds, even when it makes us uncomfortable.
This interactive program provides an overview of ways to explore how economic class intersects with our other identities and how to use that knowledge to build authentic relationships across those differences.
Outreach Worker Support & Community Organizing
These units provide foundational skills that outreach workers and community organizers need to be successful. Each unit provides key areas of focus related to building relationships, personal wellbeing, achievable goal setting, and planning for outstanding results.
Each unit is 1–2 hours long depending on the size and experience level of the group.
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Relationship Building
This unit is the foundational work of any outreach worker — listening without judgement, building solidarity within disenfranchised communities, and empowering community members to act.
Learn about:
• 1:1 conversations and active listening
• Building solidarity and being “the guide on the side”
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Systems Change
Learn how to identify upstream causes and create strategies that work across several systems to solve problems. Identify crucial community elements that impact the ability of communities to change.
Learn to:
• Identify systemic vs. individual needs for change
• Explore relations of power
• Create strategic plans for change
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Campaigning
Learn how to develop messages that resonate across cultures and to create safe spaces to bring the larger community into their important work. Learn the basics and importance of data collection.
Learn to:
• Develop talking points/communications
• Use high-touch strategies for gaining support — door knocking, letter writing, small events
• Basic data collection
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Strategic Planning for Grassroots Success
Create an achievable, trackable plan and build momentum for future success. Understand power dynamics, targeting, and resource allocation.
Learn to:
• Understand the components of a plan and how they work together
• Develop a plan and know when to adjust
• Track progress over time
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Data Collection & Use
The numbers don’t lie. Collecting data to learn from your work and adapt is key to successful programs and campaigns. Participants will learn which types of data are important, how best to collect it, and how to use it most effectively.
Learn about:
• Low-cost tools for data collection
• What data is important
• Using data to inform strategy and practices
• Tracking progress
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Self Care & Professional Boundaries
Frontline workers need skills to prevent burnout and preserve their mental health when supporting people in crisis. Learn how to set appropriate boundaries and identify when you need help in both personal and professional capacities.
Learn about:
• Setting boundaries
• Professional standards
• Human expectations
• When to ask for help