The information in this section was developed as a part of Sandy Heierbacher's 1998-99 National Service Fellowship and was designed for use by national service programs (AmeriCorps, VISTA, etc.). All of the information presented here, however, can also be used by schools, colleges, churches, businesses, and others.

Although this information was developed to help people organize intergroup dialogues on race and racism, the material can be adapted to suit any topic that is difficult to talk about openly and honestly (police/community relations, September 11, youth violence, etc.).

Why Engage in Dialogue?
Don't underrate the impact of the dialogue process...here are some straightforward reasons to run a dialogue program, quoted by leaders of dialogue organizations.

What is Dialogue?
Dialogue is much more than just talk. Learn about who uses dialogue and why, and what makes dialogue so effective.

A Sample Dialogue
Examine a thorough four-session sample dialogue that was designed to be used in national service training programs.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are honest answers to some of the most common questions people have about organizing a dialogue.

Dialogue Models
Comparative information on a variety of different dialogue models, and resources that you can utilize depending on which model you are interested in using.

To Do List
Not sure where to start? Look over this checklist for concrete steps you can take in organizing a dialogue program.