December 16, 2025
Facilitation in Action - Join us February 12 - All are Welcome
Engaged Extension professionals often find themselves in the middle of heated community conversations—whether about local policies, resource allocation, or emerging issues. These moments are critical because they shape trust and influence outcomes. Having strong skills in facilitation, active listening, and conflict resolution isn’t optional; it’s essential.
In these moments we must remain calm, impartial, and empathetic while guiding discussions toward constructive solutions. Their ability to navigate tension with professionalism ensures that diverse voices are heard and communities move forward together.
As you reflect on your work in communities this year, here are some questions to consider:
1. How do I typically respond when a conversation becomes tense or emotionally charged?
2. What strategies do I use to remain neutral and avoid taking sides?
3. What signals (verbal or nonverbal) do I give that help – or hinder – trust and openness?
4. How do I manage my own emotions when faced with strong opinions or criticism?
If you are interested in building skills in this area, we have a great opportunity coming up on February 12 at the Facilitation Drive In held in Manhattan. This opportunity is led by the Facilitation Initiative Core Team and open to everyone in our Extension system. We’ll have some time to learn and actively practice skills to help us handle the heat. Watch for a registration link after the first of the year, and we hope to see you there.