BridgeBuilder Workshops
Our BridgeBuilder Workshops are a suite of trainings and workshops employing and facilitating constructive dialogue across ideological and cultural differences. Our workshops will give participants the tools and skills necessary to bridge divides in their communities and create a more empathetic culture. These training sessions can be customized to fit the needs and requirements of each audience.
For inquiries, please fill out the form below or contact Jack Ryan Ruotolo (Learning and Development Manager) at ruotolo@bridgeusa.org.
Our Methodology
Dialogue-Centered Learning: We believe that dialogue is not only a method of effective communication, but also a powerful educational tool. Our programs are designed to utilize dialogue as the primary medium through which ideas are exchanged, perspectives are broadened, and mutual understanding is cultivated.
Customized Content: We prioritize a customizable approach to our training programs. Each session is tailored to meet the specific educational goals and cultural contexts of the audience, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
Participant Engagement:
It’s long been known that active participation is more impactful than passive learning, so that is why all our programs are designed to include maximal participant engagement throughout. Our advanced trainings gives the trainee ample time to practice what they’ve learned through practice dialogue circles and moderator roleplay.
Empowerment Through Education: We aim to empower our participants by equipping them with the tools and skills necessary for effective dialogue and leadership. Our training is designed to not only improve dialogue skills but also to enhance critical thinking, empathy, and the ability to engage in and moderate inclusive conversations.
Outcome Oriented: Every training session is developed with clear objectives in mind, designed to achieve measurable outcomes that align with the broader goals of promoting understanding and cooperation among diverse groups.
Evidence-Based Methodology:
BridgeUSA’s strategies are grounded in the latest educational research and best practices in conflict resolution and civic education. This ensures that our trainings are not only effective but also transformative, equipping participants with the skills to become thoughtful, informed, and engaged citizens.
Rapidly Expanding Influence:
As the fastest-growing nonpartisan democracy movement focused on young people, BridgeUSA has a proven track record of engaging this critical demographic at a national scale. Our success in expanding dialogue across diverse groups underscores our capacity to adapt and innovate, making us leaders in the field. This growth not only reflects our ability to meet the urgent need for civic engagement and political understanding among young people but also positions us to extend our reach to broader audiences in the future.
Versatile Skill Development
Learning the skills of dialogue through BridgeUSA’s programs equips individuals to become better public servants, coworkers, bosses, and leaders across various sectors. Many of our alumni have successfully transitioned into influential roles within the federal government, nonprofit organizations, consulting firms, journalism, and more. These skills not only enhance personal and professional relationships but also foster a culture of thoughtful communication and effective problem-solving, essential qualities in any field.
Training Offerings
Participating in Dialogue: Basic
This foundational training introduces participants to the basics of engaging in constructive dialogue across different perspectives.
It covers the essentials of deep listening and invites trainees to practice these skills in group settings, preparing them to use dialogue effectively in their professional and personal lives.
Facilitating Dialogue: Basic
This training is designed to equip participants with the basic skills needed to moderate discussions effectively.
It focuses on the role of a moderator, essential traits for success, and practical techniques for managing unproductive dialogues to maintain constructive conversations.
Participating in Dialogue: Advanced
Building on the basic course, this advanced training delves deeper into dialogue facilitation with more complex scenarios and sophisticated topics.
Participants engage in challenging dialogue exercises, learning to navigate and facilitate discussions on contemporary political and social issues.
Facilitating Dialogue: Advanced
An extension of the basic facilitation training, this advanced course introduces more nuanced techniques for de-escalating conflicts, asserting moderator authority, and steering discussions towards innovative solutions.
Includes a “Moderator Crash Course” where participants practice their skills in real-time with simulated “bad actor” scenarios.
Training Sample
If you are interested in receiving a sample and/or outline of one of our trainings, please contact our Learning and Development Manager at ruotolo@bridgeusa.org.