Organizers
Organizers form, lead, and work with teams to plan and produce Braver Angels workshops and other events.
In-person and online events both require organizers. The duties are similar, with some differences, as described below.
Prerequisites
- Membership: You must be a Braver Angels member. Please sign up to become a member.
- Well-organized, detail-oriented, good people skills: There are many details to keep track of and lots of people (and sometimes organizations) involved. The organizer needs to keep everything and everyone moving forward in the same direction, ensure that all necessary tasks are completed on time, keep all team members informed and engaged, and be flexible and maintain sense of humor when things inevitably don’t work out exactly as planned.
- Basic computer skills and internet (for online events): Tasks include scheduling and facilitating planning meetings via Zoom, monitoring a registration page on Eventbrite, securing a Zoom Meeting room for the event, opening the Zoom Meeting room, and doing simple troubleshooting and problem-solving.
- ** Note: an organizer is not responsible for facilitating the event itself; trained Braver Angels moderators facilitate the events.
“I love my role as Madam Chair, creating an orderly and friendly environment where anyone can share their perspective, ask curious questions, listen respectfully and engage in lively discussion without fear of being shamed or disrespected. I find it personally satisfying to keep the group on track, and I meet the most interesting and wonderful people!”
Cynthia O'Brien
“Being part of the debate team, both whipping and chairing, has been one of my most satisfying Braver Angels experiences. We debate interesting topics and sometimes receive important insights.”
Paul Norris
“Chairing Braver Angels debates has been one of the most personally gratifying roles I have enjoyed. Our debates really are a collaborative search for truth and, as a result, a valuable learning experience for all. And they are characterized by humor and laughter. It would be hard not to deeply enjoy chairing an event like that.”
Steve Warshaw
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Training Process
Step 2: Pair with a Mentor
You will then be mentored by a trained Organizer mentor.
Step 3: Complete Training
Lastly, you will complete a qualification session.
FAQ
We provide training and support in the following ways:
- Weekly support calls and opportunities to connect with other Braver Angels organizers across the country
- Mentoring by experienced organizers
- Online Event and Public Outreach Resources (Written Processes & Procedures, Step-By-Step Guide, etc.)
- Ongoing training opportunities
- Organizer Help Desk and Office Hours
Advanced, add-on training will prepare you to manage more complex events, such as Red/Blue and Common Ground workshops. This is a very supportive and interactive community, with regular calls and ready access to support.