Community Commons · Gathering kit
A conversation you can host
One person can invite a conversation. You do not need a committee, a member list, or a professional facilitator.
Printable invitation · draft; do not publish as a scheduled event
Come talk, share, and listen
We are beginning a welcoming space for people connected to Pit River country and neighboring communities, near and far. Our first question:
What would make it easier to find useful local information, help one another, and stay connected?
There is no requirement to agree on everything. Listening counts. You may attend without speaking.
- When:
- _____________________
- Where / online link:
- _____________________
- Host/contact:
- _____________________
- Access needs / travel notes:
- _____________________
Fill in only after details are confirmed. Do not print a public RSVP link or private meeting URL before you are ready to host. This is an independent Institute initiative, not an official Tribal gathering.
Host guide · flexible 60 minutes
A simple 20 / 20 / 20 conversation
- First 20 — Welcome & shareSay why you invited people. Invite introductions, optional names, and one small useful thing they know or wish others knew.
- Second 20 — Listen & exploreAsk: “What makes it hard to stay informed or get help where you live?” and “What would make connecting easier?” Invite turns, allow passing, and avoid cross-examination.
- Last 20 — Carry forwardAsk: “Is there one public link, event, or idea you’d like people to take away?” Summarize only public resources people agree to share, thank everyone, and end on time.
Agreements you can read aloud
Speak from your own experience. Listen without ridicule. Be curious rather than trying to win. Passing is welcome. Do not share anyone else’s story or record the meeting without explicit permission. Disagree with ideas without attacking people.
Afterward
Keep private notes private. If people voluntarily offer public resources, verify them independently. Ask separately before publishing quotations, names, photos, or a public summary. A pleasant conversation without any written record is a complete gathering.
Small practical preparations
Choose an accessible, welcoming venue you have permission to use, or a manageable video/telephone option. Give enough advance notice, include remote participants when practical, and explain how to join without creating a special account. Allow paper notes and quiet participation. Provide time and an accessible way to leave.
These are original Institute host materials informed by Living Room Conversations and Priya Parker’s The Art of Gathering; they are not official materials or an endorsement from those organizations.
No Commons gathering is scheduled by this guide. A confirmed date and access details should be published separately.