Heart & Soul Talks: Bridge Divides with Discourse that's Civil

Orton Family Foundation

Taking on controversial issues is a challenge that every community faces. How those issues are approached can make the difference between a community that thrives and one where divides erode a community’s vitality. Join us for insight and practical ideas and tools for advancing civil discourse from nationally-recognized expert in the field, Carolyn J. Lukensmeyer, Ph. D. and Mayor Thom Harnett of Gardiner, Maine, who has led his way in welcoming new residents and embracing the value they bring to the small town, sometimes in the face of protest. Speakers: --Dr. Carolyn J. Lukensmeyer, executive director, National Institute for Civil Discourse As a leader in the field of deliberative democracy, Dr. Lukensmeyer works to restore our democracy to reflect the intended vision of our founding fathers. She previously served as Founder and President of AmericaSpeaks, an award-winning nonprofit organization that promoted nonpartisan initiatives to engage citizens and leaders through the development of innovative public policy tools and strategies. --Thom Harnett, mayor, Gardiner, Maine. Thom, now serving his third term as mayor of Gardiner, Maine, recently retired from the state Office of the Attorney General where he had served as an assistant attorney general, and established Civil Rights Teams in more than 220 schools statewide. Thom was active in Gardiner’s Community Heart & Soul® project. --Fran Stoddard, moderator A national award-winning producer of video programs, Fran produced and hosted Vermont Public Television’s weekly “Profile” interview program for more than a decade. She frequently serves as moderator for community events and has served on numerous non-profit boards. This FREE event was recorded on Thursday, September 28, 2017. Heart & Soul Talks features stories and insight from Community Heart & Soul®, a community development model that builds stronger, healthier, and more economically vibrant small cities and towns. Learn more at orton.org.