Community Engagement for Public Professionals: Overview

Join Dr. Deborah D. Stine for an engaging introduction to a five-part series on community engagement tailored for state and local government. This first workshop provides an overview of innovative strategies to strengthen connections with communities. Attendees will learn effective communication techniques, how to leverage digital tools, and how to design inclusive outreach programs that resonate with diverse groups. Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, participants will discover ways to identify community priorities, foster active participation, and build trust with stakeholders. By the end of this session, you'll have practical strategies to enhance your community engagement efforts, resulting in improved public services and stronger civic relationships. Future workshops will delve into using interviews, focus groups, and surveys for data collection, and conclude with techniques for effectively communicating engagement results to policymakers and the public, emphasizing scientific and technical information.