Heart of Facilitation Program Overview

The purpose of the Heart of Facilitation is to train people who work with youth and adult groups to lead heart-centered, creative, transformative learning programs.

Based on the premise that good facilitators are authentic, creative, responsible and passionate; this training will weave personal growth with skill building in facilitation, group work, youth development and arts-based practices.

The Heart of Facilitation will be fun, enlivening and challenging. Participants should expect the training to be at times mentally, physically, and emotionally taxing. We have purposely created a rigorous training to make clear the level of skill, commitment, and integrity it takes to become an effective, top-notch facilitator.

Those who see working with groups not as “work” but rather as a life path, should feel right at home with the Heart of Facilitation.

TOPICS COVERED:
Basic Facilitation Skills
Questioning, processing, listening, authentic speaking, contextualization, debriefing, working with a co-facilitator

Effective Communication
Non-violent, relational, and challenge-based communication; relational and rapport building skills

Group Dynamics
Understanding what makes groups tick; getting comfortable working with young people, their emotions and issues

Personal Development
Understanding your triggers; learning how to claim and hold the space; understanding your strengths and challenges as a leader

Presentation Skills
Getting comfortable speaking in front of groups; projecting your voice; clear communication; being able to think on your feet

Creative Arts Skills
Using image and metaphor in teaching; basic activities from theater, creative writing, poetry, visual arts, music, movement, and rhythm

Program Design Skills
Elements of a strong program; how to design experiential learning programs