Community Conversations

Community Conversations

Exploring ideas through conversation with others is an important way for people to think about the relationship between what they believe and how they act in the world. 

A Community Conversation encourages people to listen respectfully to different viewpoints and engage with issues that affect our communities. Unlike a lecture-style program (see our Speakers program), a Community Conversation involves the active participation of all audience members throughout the program. Guided by a trained conversation leader, participants explore why they think what they do, share stories with one another, build trust, and find common ground.  

How it Works

Delaware Humanities trains conversation leaders to facilitate 90-minute conversations on specific topics. Organizations then request to host these conversations with support from Delaware Humanities. 

The host organization pays a fee (discounted for non-profits) to Delaware Humanities. Delaware Humanities covers the conversation leader’s honorarium and mileage to the host site (if applicable). 

How to Apply to Host a Conversation

First, an interested host organization should contact the conversation leader for their chosen conversation topic directly to arrange a time and format that works for the conversation leader’s schedule. Then, after contacting the conversation leader, the host organization should apply for the conversation through Delaware Humanities.  

Follow the detailed steps below to apply: 

How to Make a Request 

• Contact the speaker directly and arrange a date, time, and location for your program. Conversations are 90 minutes long and can be in-person or virtual, depending on the needs and comfort levels of both the conversation leader and the host organization. 
• Create a free online Foundant account or login to your account here. 
• Submit the online Community Conversation Request Application at least four weeks before your program date. Please note that Delaware Humanities will not approve a request if the host organization has not yet discussed the time and format of the conversation with the Conversation Leader. 

After Your Request & Before Your Event 

• Wait for approval and the Conversation Agreement from Delaware Humanities before advertising your event. 
• Read the Conversation Agreement carefully and digitally sign prior to the program. The Conversation Agreement details our rules and expectations for the host.  
• Send in co-payment ($75 for federally registered nonprofits, $150 for other organizations. Check your nonprofit status here, if you are unsure). You may mail a check made out to Delaware Humanities to 100 W 10^th St, Suite 509, Wilmington, DE 19801 or request to pay electronically for a small fee.  
• Whether virtual or in-person, it is the responsibility of the host organization to communicate with the Conversation Leader directly to learn their technological needs for the program. 
• Promote your event!  
• Distribute audience evaluations at the program. Provide the link to audience members to the digital evaluation for virtual programs. You may find the evaluations in your Conversation Agreement and here. 

After Your Event 

• Return audience evaluations within one week to the Delaware Humanities office. 
• Log in to your Foundant account and complete your Program Coordinator evaluation online. 

Current Conversation Leaders

List coming soon! Check the catalog linked to above for the Conversation Leaders and their discussions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of organizations can apply? 

• All kinds! Community Conversations are meant for community organizations, libraries, small and large nonprofits, universities, community colleges, businesses, and other organizations across the state. 

How many people can participate in these community conversations? 

• Community Conversations are best for groups of between ten and twenty-five. We suggest aiming for 15-20 registered attendees, keeping in mind that not everyone may be able to make it on the day of the event.  

Who can participate in these conversations?  

• You can host a Community Conversation for the public or for a particular group: for example, your workplace, your place of worship, or a community group.  

Can I record this conversation?  

• No. Community Conversations involve participants having space to share their personal stories and beliefs. Recording alters this dynamic. 

What if my organization would like to host a Community Conversation virtually, but doesn’t have a virtual platform to host?  

• You can use ours! During your application process, contact us and we’ll set up a Zoom link for you. 

Can I charge a fee for attendees? 

• No. These events should be free for your community.