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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.

Option 1: Stand-Alone Community Space

With stand-alone community spaces, also known as drop-in circles, your team will work with MCR facilitators to engage in circle methodology around a variety of community-focused topics including, but not limited to, setting shared values and agreements; defining and contributing to community; bringing our full selves into a space; developing a sense of connection; having difficult conversations; celebrating accomplishments; and reflecting on the past and thinking ahead.   

We will work with you for 1-2 sessions, at which time you will have the foundation upon which to continue your community space independently. The MCR team will remain available for questions and support.

Option 2: Circle Series for Groups

Using community building circle practice in an ongoing way can deepen connection and trust within a team/group/unit. In a circle series, we still follow the principles and engage in the topics that are used in drop-in circles, and we still practice respectful and open communication. With a dedicated series, however, facilitators can tailor the circles to dig deeper into some of the top-of-mind themes and questions for your specific group. 

Examples of circle series themes include:  

  • Re/establishing effective team dynamics 
  • Finding common ground and language for difficult conversations 
  • Revealing group strengths and shared goals 
  • Holding space to unpack team retreat themes and action items 

These sessions can be 60 to 90 minutes, and we recommend 3 to 6 sessions for your group to effectively create the circle and shared agreements.

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