Frequently Asked Questions
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How long is the workshop?
The workshop lasts approximately two and a half days. A typical schedule is:
- Day 1: 5pm – 8pm
- Day 2: 9am – 8pm
- Day 3: 9am – 5pm
We have found that having two evenings together is crucial to the success of the workshops: it allows time to build the trust among participants that is vital in ensuring honest, productive dialogue about vision and values. Holding the workshop at a residential site (see “Where should we hold the workshop?”) is also very helpful in creating the space and time for this to happen.
When is the best time to do the workshop?
Whole Thinking Workshops are best conducted immediately prior to a strategic or annual planning process. The workshops give participants the chance to spend time in dialogue about the organization or coalition’s big-picture aspirations and values that will then inform a successful strategic plan.
If you are thinking of adopting Center for Whole Communities’ Whole Measures tool within your organization or coalition, you might also consider holding a Whole Thinking Workshop. Though simple and straightforward to use, Whole Measures represents a revolutionary way of approaching conservation. Whole Thinking Workshops help prepare groups for this change in approach, ensuring successful adoption of the tool.
Who should come?
The mix of people attending the workshop will vary depending on the nature of your group. In the case of organizations, we recommend a diverse cross-section of staff members (including senior staff and new hires), members of the board, and, if at all possible, community partners or potential community partners. Inviting community partners to such a workshop can be daunting, but outside perspectives on the value of the organization to the community, or the unfulfilled potential of the organization within the community, is often one of the most important components of the workshop. It can also help to build support for your organization with important allies.
Where should we hold the workshop?
We strongly recommend holding the workshop at a residential, off-site property, where participants can stay overnight. Think of the workshop as a two-day, two-night retreat.
How much does it cost?
The cost of the workshop will vary depending on your group’s needs and the venue and food costs (which are additional), but Center for Whole Communities’ basic costs are $10,000 for up to 24 participants, plus reasonable travel expenses for two facilitators.
How many people can attend?
We generally recommend that no more than 24 people attend the workshop. The larger the group size, the fewer opportunities participants will have to speak, and a key component of the workshop is meaningful dialogue among participants.