Community Building Circle Practice
Circle Practice is a type of restorative practice informed by restorative justice philosophy and grounded in Indigenous teaching which aims to build community, invite reflection, and model empathetic communication among participants. Circles are one way we can proactively support our community members in thriving through developing deeper relationships with each other and greater connection to and within our broader community.
Community building circles are an open and courageous space to explore what community means to you individually and to engage collectively in creating and redefining community together with your team/group/unit.
In this first tier of circle practice, we pay particular attention to relationship building and strengthening through a non-hierarchical structure in which everyone is encouraged to share without interruption and to listen with respect. At the end of the circle, our hope is that you will have had the opportunity to speak and be heard and, perhaps more importantly, to listen and be changed.
How does MCR help facilitate community building circle practice?
The MCR team is currently offering two types of support for departments and units interested in exploring the benefits of community building work. MCR facilitators have completed “tier one” restorative justice training and, in many cases, additional training and professional development on restorative practices and related skills and topics.
How do I request developing a circle?
If you’d like to discuss developing a community building circle, please complete this intake form. A team member will respond to you within 48 hours.
Submit Request