Community Dialogue

Public broadcasting stations are uniquely positioned to convene meaningful discussions in their local communities. As representatives of trusted local institutions, public broadcasters can convene citizens who typically might not connect. The result of this diversity is a discussion that authentically reflects the local community and an experience that provides community knowledge to both public broadcasters and the citizens who participate.

Stations that implement this kind of authentic community dialogue create a win–win situation. Stations gain key knowledge to assess their goals and strengthen their local services. Community members feel valued as they help stations understand important local issues. Together, as they work to address these topics, they build a healthier community and a deeper relationship for genuine two–way communication that continues into the future.

The tools in this section offer a variety of ideas for approaching community dialogues. As you explore them, consider the relationship you currently have with your community and which of these approaches might help you strengthen that relationship.

Listening Sessions give community members — ordinary citizens — an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns about their public broadcasting station and their local communities.

Community Leadership Summits are a vehicle for convening community organizations and leaders to exchange ideas that might lead to new collaborative initiatives to address community concerns.

More Dialogue Tools: Use these resources to develop your own series of ongoing conversations with your community. Many of these tools will help you structure conversations that cultivate a deep understanding of broader community concerns.