Overview
Building a Competitive Workforce 2012 Community Forums Each year, Southern Growth Policies Board starts a conversation in the South on a particular issue related to economic development. We do this by holding community forums, or moderated discussions, in communities large and small across the region. This year, Southern Growth would like your help in discussing what communities can do to build a competitive workforce for the future. Just as important as informing Southern Growth and other Southern leaders, a forum can be a tool for you to galvanize action in your own community. People often tell us that the forums have led to new networks, a better understanding of the issue, and the start of serious thinking about their community’s future. In addition to benefitting your community, forum moderators will also be eligible for a special discounted rate at Southern Growth’s 2012 annual conference. So, how do you hold a community forum? You invite the group and Southern Growth provides you with all the materials for a two-hour discussion. Civic clubs, chamber groups, and leadership classes can provide the audience, or create your own. A typical forum audience is between 10 and 30 citizens. The forums can be run by almost anyone using a moderator’s guide and discussion guides for citizen participants.Further instructions, an on-line signup link, and materials are available on the Materials & Instructions Page. For general or logistical questions, contact Paula Baker at pbaker@southern.org or (919) 941-5145. For specific questions about how to plan or moderate a community forum, contact Linda Hoke at lhoke@southern.org. |
Southern Growth Policies Board, P.O. Box 12293, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Phone: (919) 941-5145, Fax: (919) 941-5594