Forums

The world is a dynamic place, and the world of youth and community development is no different. As compelling things transpire, there is often a need to explore them with other people in settings that are conducive to in-depth discussion. It is at these times that the Forum, with the assistance of a statewide network of partners, can put out a call to convene a discussion in a community Forum.

When called, community forums are opportunities for youth, parents, teachers, lawmakers and others to weigh in on a topic that is already on the minds of many others. These forums create the ability for individuals to explore a topic at length and make decisions about the new information that they have garnered. Staffs from the New Mexico Forum for Youth in Community conduct community forums to solicit community voice. Historically, forums have focused on youth policy issues as well as on mobilization of community members to engage in asset-based community development approaches. For more information on our community forums, please contact Anna Nelson, Executive Director (anelson@nmforumforyouth.org).

Frequently, the topics that are discussed at forums can lead to more deliberative dialogues that are documented through a facilitated community conversation utilizing the Voice of the Community Process ™.