Restorative Practices for Community Building
Restorative Community Building
Healthy communities and strong relationships are the foundation of a Restorative approach. When relationships are attended to, we are less likely to do harm to one another, and our communities are more resiliant in the face of harm.
Community Building Circles
Celebration Circle
These Circles are a good fit for any group hoping to give themselves (and each other) some extra sunshine. We can reflect on the academic year, success on a project, an impending retirement or transition, or anything else your team needs to celebrate.
Talking Circle
When groups need connection outside of the normal academic or professional context, talking circles are a great option! These Circles create equity of voice and allow for a non-hierarchical conversation to deepen relationships with others.
Re-Entry Circle
These are Circles of support and accountability to help members of the Penn Community when transitioning back to campus after a leave (medical, disciplinary, personal, family, etc.) to gather their supporters and develop a re-entry plan for their personal wellbeing and professional/academic success.
Values/Norm Setting Circle
Values/Norm Setting Circles are used to help strengthen the community, build shared understanding of needs, and begin to create/solidify community values and norms.
Decision Making Circle
When a difficult decision needs to be made in a way that honors the voices and expertise of an entire team or community, Decision Making Circles can support deep listening and open sharing of perspectives.
Grief Circle
Restorative Practices at Penn (RP@P) offers Grief Circles as an opportunity to gather and have a facilitated conversation to reflect on a loss and honor the memory of a member of our community. It is also a chance to consider how we will practice individual and collective care during the grieving process.
Request a Community Building Circle