Nonfiction Book Award Status: GOLD
Synopsis
Imagine meetings where everyone is heard and all people matter. Picture organizations that embrace all voices and are committed to justice, equity and opportunity. Imagine businesses, nonprofits and the public sector creatively engaging people in thousands of ways—seeking their best ideas, empowering the silenced, and building communities where all are treated with dignity and respect.
That’s what Thrive: The Facilitator’s Guide to Radically Inclusive Meetings seeks to create. Each chapter contains practical insights and accessible stories that transform meetings from dull to dynamic. You will learn how to:
- capitalize on diversity’s strengths
- keep meetings task-oriented and collegial
- facilitate effectively in polarized or conflicted settings
Thrive includes chapters on privilege and power, multilingual and virtual meetings, and full inclusion of people with disabilities. Whether you are a skilled practitioner or new to leadership, Thrive will teach you techniques for facilitating more effective, inclusive and energizing meetings
Author Bio
Dr. Mark Smutny is a professional facilitator, consultant, workshop leader, author and founder of Civic Reinventions, Inc. He is known for helping nonprofits uncover wisdom hidden in their diversity, build engagement, and increase productivity and mission success.
He draws upon decades of work planning and leading retreats, facilitating strategic plans, and leading workshops on inclusive meeting practices that enable organizations to embrace all voices for greater productivity and mission fulfillment. He has worked in nonprofit transportation services, human services, affordable housing and homeless services, resident and business associations, and faith-based groups. His doctorate focused on strengthening multicultural communication in faith-based organizations.