...connecting community needs
and University resources...

Topics

• Agriculture
• Community
• Environment
• Family
• Garden
• Youth

Workshops

Find convenient educational offerings and e-learning

The Extension Store

Shop Extension for educational materials

Engaging with the Public

Related

• About this series
• See the U-Connect Program
• Contact a Leadership & Civic Engagement educator near you
• Learn about Community Vitality programs

Order from the Store

• Public Participation Fieldbook
• Facilitation Resources Publication Collection
• Committees that Work U-Lead Guidebook

Feedback

Was this information useful?

Leaders who involve the people affected by difficult decisions are more likely to increase public trust and support.

This series of best practices tip sheets can help decision-makers consider when and how to engage the public to make more informed choices.

For more information

Leadership & Civic Engagement (LCE) educators across the state of Minnesota provide educational programs and consultations that help communities solve problems and make decisions. Contact an educator near you or LCE Program Leader Mary Ann G. Hennen, (612) 624-4226.

• Why should decision-makers involve others?
  Tip: Engaging the public has multiple benefits
• How do we engage the public successfully?
  Tip: Align the public participation strategy with the goal
• What type of facilitator will help most?
  Tip: Consider when to use an internal or external facilitator
• How do we plan for an effective meeting?
  Tip: Create an agenda with purpose
• How can we support more productive discussions?
  Tip: Set ground rules
• What’s the best decision-making method?
  Tip: Decide who decides — and how
• How can we benefit from consensus decision-making?
  Tip: Involve others and increase commitment

This material is available in alternative formats upon request. Direct requests to Jennifer Wagner-Harkonen, Center for Community Vitality, denom001@umn.edu, (612) 624-2811