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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T053000
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SUMMARY:Two Years of Togetherness: our journey\, the learnings and what's ahead
DESCRIPTION:Overview\n\n\n\n\n\nAn online celebration welcoming anyone interested in loneliness\, social cohesion and systems change\n\n\n\nNow\, more than ever\, we need community\, togetherness\, solidarity and hope. Our team has spent two years learning how to build connections within and between communities\, through Steps to Togetherness – a national grassroots-led civil society movement\, which we believe can now be scaled to shape the future for the better. Join us for a joyful and inspiring online session to absorb the many learnings from our evaluation (soon to be published) and be part of our plans for the future. \nThe Steps to Togetherness story will be told through the voices of some of our treasured partners from a range of localities in a podcast-style discussion. We’ll be facilitated by the one and only Dee Brecker. After the main discussion\, you’ll be welcome to stay on the call and join an open conversation with the other brilliant and inspiring change-makers who will be on the call. \n\n\n\n\nWhat is Steps to Togetherness?\nSteps to Togetherness is all about building connections within and between communities. We believe the most salient issues facing the UK all have a shared root cause: a lack of connection and community. In a nutshell\, the UK over the years has been primed to be a highly individualistic society underpinned by systems shaped by a colonial mindset. These systems inherently create widespread disconnection\, and therefore loneliness. Loneliness is terrible for our health and wellbeing. What is more\, widespread loneliness provides the perfect conditions for divisive narratives to thrive\, because loneliness makes us paranoid\, angry and resentful. When we are divided\, it becomes very difficult to bring about positive systems change\, so it’s a vicious cycle. \nSteps to Togetherness offers a vision for widespread behaviour change. We can all do our bit to help intercept this vicious cycle by connecting more in our neighbourhoods\, workplaces and communities. 32 Steps to Togetherness is a resource of ideas for practical actions we can all take. \nOver the last two years\, thanks to the National Lottery (Bringing People Together grant stream)\, we have brought together and supported a range of partners who share this vision. With them\, we have co-produced and delivered a wide range of programmes and initiatives \nWhen we look at symptoms\, problems can seem unrelated. When we look at their shared root causes\, suddenly it becomes clear how they are all interlinked. Steps to Togetherness helps foster solidarity among different sectors and movements working on a wide range of (seemingly unrelated) social justice issues. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhere we’re at\nAfter two years of Togetherness\, the movement is raring to go and ready to be scaled! The overwhelming excitement and engagement with Steps to Togetherness has led to a movement that far outstripped our original goals. Our evaluation concludes that this success is testament to the conceptual framework\, partnership model and our approach – and how well-positioned we are to facilitate it. We’ve worked with a huge range of partners. We’ve developed a suite of tools – workshops\, talks\, materials\, training\, free capacity-building support – which we can readily tailor to different contexts. With an abundance of success stories and rich learnings\, we’re confident we have the tools to successfully foster togetherness at scale. (Shoot us an email if you’re interested to see our DRAFT strategy for 2026-2029). Steps to Togetherness has never felt more needed\, and we have never felt more ready. \nUnfortunately\, our current funding situation doesn’t quite match up. We have been thrilled to have been funded by a grant from the National Lottery for the last two years. Having come to the end of that grant period\, we’ve been forced into an extended period of reflection whilst we wait to secure funds. We’ve been evaluating and strategising. So long as socially divisive and extremist racist views are being mainstreamed\, we’ll remain determined to keep going. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhy we’re putting on this event\nThe Togetherness movement is living on in a few ways – thanks to ad-hoc support from different partners and through our wonderful network of grassroots civil society organisations (see Storytelling for Togetherness). But until we secure a significant grant\, it feels like having our wings clipped at a time when Togetherness\, solidarity and hope have never been more needed. \nWe really hope this short but powerful online session will help to strengthen our position to secure new funding so that we can re-energise and further scale our social cohesion and community-bridge building work nationally. \nRegardless of whether we get more funding to continue the Togetherness movement as we know it\, we want to share everything we have learned! We have traversed the country and worked with some incredible partners in different places and on different themes. We’ve had a blast\, and learnt so much about how to work well and efficiently\, led by what communities know is needed and the strengths they and our treasured partners have. We’ve got inspiring stories\, insights from a wide range of people and communities and tips\, tricks and do’s and don’ts. \nWe also have oodles of further ideas for continuing\, deepening and expanding the movement. We hope by listening to our story\, you’ll spot opportunities for us to support and work with and alongside you. \n\n\n\n\nWhy you should come\nIf you have been part of Steps to Togetherness\, this is an opportunity to celebrate\, understand the wider movement that you have been part of\, and support us as we dream big about continuation and scaling. \nIf you’re working on similar themes (such as loneliness\, social cohesion and/or systems change) – sometimes we may be tempted to see each other as competitors. We invite you to put that to one side and come learn from our mistakes! The the joys that lifted us\, the struggles that tested us\, and the surprises that shaped the movement. Take inspiration! Steal our ideas! (But please remember to thank and credit us if you do!) We hope that when you come to the event\, you may spot opportunities for us to work together in partnership\, which we can then discuss. \nYou may have heard about Steps to Togetherness\, but not known exactly what it is. You may have not heard of it at all\, but be interested in the concept. If so\, this is an opportunity to learn a lot very quickly in an easy-listening event. \nIf this is the type of work you might want to fund – we invite you\, with no pressure or expectations\, to pop along. We might be what you’re looking for. Either way\, listening to this conversation will help you build clarity and gain valuable insight and knowledge. \nIn other words – there’s something for everyone and the more the merrier. Please do come and show your support. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhat to expect\nThis event is designed to be joyful and inspiring for all. \n\nWe’ll celebrate through storytelling\nYou’ll learn from our experiences\, gain practical tips\nWe hope for a strong spirit of camaraderie as we explore the potential of working together\n\nThe podcast style discussion will be structured yet conversational\, lasting about 1hr. Anyone wanting to talk more will be welcome to stay on the call for longer. It’ll be a warm\, relaxed and inclusive atmosphere from start to finish\, but more interactive during that second half. We’ll likely kick things off with a poem!
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/two-years-of-togetherness-our-journey-the-learnings-and-whats-ahead/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Community
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260210T155241Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T162725Z
UID:5129-1771423200-1771426800@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:Social Isolation\, Loneliness\, and Connection (SILC): State of the US Ecosystem
DESCRIPTION:Join the Foundation for Social Connection for the launch of the US Social Isolation\, Loneliness\, and Connection (SILC) Ecosystem Map and the inaugural ‘State of the US Ecosystem’ report\, two complementary resources designed to shed light on the diverse landscape of entities advancing social connection. \nThis webinar will introduce participants to the US. SILC Ecosystem Map\, a dynamic\, multidimensional tool that visualizes entities across sectors\, geographies\, roles\, and more. We will walk through how the map can be used to identify potential partners\, surface gaps\, and support more coordinated efforts to foster social connection. \nThe webinar will also highlight key findings from the ‘State of the US Ecosystem’ report\, which draws on survey responses from more than 60 entities working across the US SILC landscape and captures findings on the ecosystem’s strengths\, challenges\, and needs. A moderated fireside chat with leaders representing diverse perspectives from across the ecosystem will bring these insights to life\, exploring what they mean for research\, policy\, and practice. These include: \nLuke Wall\, Executive Director\, Only 7 Seconds \nErika Thomas\, Director of Social Connections\, Samaritan (convenor of the Social Isolation\, Loneliness & Connection Collaborative) \nDr. Carla Perissinotto\, Professor of Medicine\, University of California\, San Francisco; F4SC Scientific Leadership Council Vice-Chair; NorCal Coalition for Social Connection co-lead \nThe session will conclude with a Q&A and clear calls to action\, inviting participants to reflect on their role in the ecosystem and identify concrete opportunities for collaboration. Through the map and report\, you’ll learn about where efforts are concentrated\, where challenges persist\, and where critical gaps remain. Whether you’re a practitioner\, policymaker\, or funder\, join us to better understand the current state of the US SILC ecosystem and to connect with others working to build a more connected nation.
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/social-isolation-loneliness-and-connection-silc-state-of-the-us-ecosystem/
LOCATION:Virtual
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260309
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260318
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260210T162647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T201836Z
UID:5138-1773014400-1773791999@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:Brain Week 2026
DESCRIPTION:🧠 Brain health belongs in everyday life\, not just in research labs. \nBrain Week 2026 showcases the Virtual Brain Health Center’s biggest collaboration yet. Across 16 sessions\, 25 experts share evidence-based insights on exercise\, stress\, learning\, social well-being\, cognitive fitness\, and creative engagement. \nYou’ll gain simple exercises and strategies designed for real life\, whether you are a professional\, caregiver\, educator\, or lifelong learner. \nAll events are free and online\, with several available on demand after the week ends. \nTake part in the brain health movement. Register today here:
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/brain-week-2026/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Health
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T235000
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260305T151804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T164420Z
UID:5175-1773745200-1773791400@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Belonging Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Make a warm cup at home and log into the virtual meeting space! \nJenna Wilmer will start the event by spending about 15 minutes discussing the concepts of belonging and a “Virtual Belonging Cafe\,” then share a personal story of belonging. For the rest of the time\, all others who attend are welcome to share belonging stories and perspectives on a few related questions. \nThis is a free event. Register at the provided link. Those who sign up will receive confirmation and the Google Meet link to join within a couple of days of the event. \nMarch 17th\n11:00 AM ET – 11:50 AM ET \nPlease email Jenna Wilmer (jennawilmer25@gmail.com) if you have any questions.
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/rooted-place-consulting/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Civic Engagement,Community
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ORGANIZER;CN="Rooted Place Consulting":MAILTO:jennawilmer25@gmail.com
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260317T150000
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260210T163034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T163034Z
UID:5143-1773756000-1773759600@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:Intergenerational Connections Webinar
DESCRIPTION:On Tuesday\, March 17 at 2PM\, the Action Network and DOROT will be co-hosting an Intergenerational Connection Webinar! \nThis session will explore how fostering intergenerational connection can reduce loneliness and strengthen communities across the lifespan\, featuring key insights from policymakers\, experts\, and community changemakers. \n📅 Tuesday\, March. 17 @ 2 PM ET\n💻 Virtual via Zoom \nDon’t miss this opportunity to learn\, connect\, and take action. Stay tuned for registration details!
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/intergenerational-connections-webinar/
LOCATION:Virtual
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260326T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260326T180000
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260320T181031Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T192633Z
UID:5231-1774544400-1774548000@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:A New Roadmap: Structural Investments to Build Social Capital and Improve Economic Mobility
DESCRIPTION:This keynote will be delivered as the 2026 Social Capital Conference\, hosted by the International Social Capital Association. \nSpeakers: Frances Kraft\, PhD\, Research and Practice Program Director\, Foundation for Social Connection; Shamichael Hallman\, Director of Civic Health and Economic Opportunity\, Urban Libraries Council \nIn recent decades\, economic mobility has declined across the U.S.\, driven in part by the loss of third places and shrinking opportunities to form “bridging” relationships and build social capital. There is hope in reversing this trend through an approach that fosters a culture of connection and invests in strategies that strengthen trust and belonging. Local government leaders have a key role to play – but their efforts must be guided by the spaces\, stories\, projects\, relationships\, and organizing practices already activated within their communities. In this presentation\, the Foundation for Social Connection (F4SC) will introduce its comprehensive framework as a guide for local leaders to consider the power of social connection as they make investment decisions to advance economic mobility. The framework calls on leaders to invest in infrastructure that empowers community voice\, strengthens partnerships across sectors\, builds social infrastructure\, and aligns equitable policies. \nDrawing on insights from six community site visits conducted during the framework’s development\, as well as their own work in Chicago and Memphis\, they will share practical strategies for activating social and civic networks\, enhancing resident agency\, and embedding trust and belonging into local practice and policy. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to measure and strengthen community social capital — building more connected\, resilient communities that drive economic mobility. \nFrances Kraft\nFrances Kraft is an experienced educator\, community organizer\, and restorative practitioner working to catalyze trusted connections that lead to collective action and systemic change. In her current role as Director of Research and Practice at the Foundation for Social Connection\, she authored The Roadmap: Reimagining Infrastructure to Improve Social Capital. The report explores the role third places can play in building trust\, belonging\, and mutual responsibility to mobilize resources and work collectively for equitable policies. Prior to this role\, she led engagement at Weave: The Social Fabric Project at The Aspen Institute. Frances spent a decade working in education outside Chicago\, first as a classroom teacher and later as the founder of a non-profit coalition of families\, students\, and teachers working for equitable access\, experiences\, and outcomes for children. She earned a master’s degree in education policy at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education in 2016 and a doctorate in leadership at the University of Pennsylvania in 2025. She is currently working on a book based on her dissertation titled Building Civic Empathy Through Relational Dialogue: A Transformative Space for Change. \nShamichael Hallman\nShamichael Hallman is an internationally recognized civic innovator\, author\, and thought leader dedicated to strengthening communities through libraries\, public engagement\, and faith-based initiatives. As Senior Director of Civic Health and Economic Opportunity at the Urban Libraries Council\, he advocates for public libraries as vital civic infrastructure. His book\, Meet Me at the Library\, explores how libraries foster democracy and bridge-building. A sought-after speaker\, Shamichael has presented at top universities and library associations. Previously\, Shamichael championed the multi-million-dollar renovation of the historic Cossitt Library in Memphis\, contributing to Memphis Public Libraries earning the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Science. He was a 2025 Next City Vanguard Fellow\, a 2023 Loeb Fellow at the Harvard Graduate School of Design\, and has a Master’s in Nonprofit Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania.
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/a-new-roadmap-structural-investments-to-build-social-capital-and-improve-economic-mobility/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Community,Economy
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260414
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260417
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260210T161214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T161214Z
UID:5136-1776124800-1776383999@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:2026 Collective Impact Action Summit
DESCRIPTION:The 2026 Collective Impact Action Summit is an online gathering of nonprofits\, funders\, and community partners who believe that collaboration\, courage\, and shared learning can light the way forward.  Over three days\, we’ll reconnect with what sustains us—community joy—through powerful keynotes on storytelling\, the arts\, and civic engagement. And in hands-on breakout sessions\, we’ll dig into six practical areas that are essential for collaborating in today’s context: community engagement\, data and learning\, narrative change\, fundraising and sustainability\, policy and advocacy\, and technology and AI for collaboration. \nRegister to join here.
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/2026-collective-impact-action-summit/
LOCATION:Virtual
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260427T133000
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260320T180618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T180618Z
UID:5228-1777293000-1777296600@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:Eisner Prize Fellows Showcase and Info Session
DESCRIPTION:The Eisner Prize Fellowship incubates new leaders and ideas bringing people of all ages together to reduce social isolation and foster connection across generations. This session will showcase the impressive intergenerational projects of the 2025/26 cohort as their Fellowship comes to a close\, followed by a short info session for prospective applicants for the 2026/27 cycle.
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/eisner-prize-fellows-showcase-and-info-session/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Aging,Civic Engagement,Community,Older Adults,Religion and Spirituality
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T130000
DTSTAMP:20260416T121254
CREATED:20260415T195527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T195535Z
UID:5293-1779278400-1779282000@www.social-connection.org
SUMMARY:Advancing Social Connection through Arts\, Culture\, and Leisure
DESCRIPTION:Join us on May 20th for a webinar where we’ll dive into how arts\, culture\, and leisure can be leveraged to strengthen social connection and improve both individual and community outcomes. \nFeaturing a fireside chat with experts who contributed to the report\, we’ll discuss actionable strategies and real-world examples for advancing social connection through systems change and community engagement. We’ll also highlight the importance of designing these opportunities with intention\, addressing barriers to access\, and ensuring equitable participation so that social connection is fostered across diverse communities. \nWhether you are an artist\, cultural leader\, policymaker\, educator\, public health professional\, philanthropist\, or community advocate\, this webinar invites you to reimagine arts\, culture\, and leisure as central to building more connected\, inclusive\, and resilient communities.
URL:https://www.social-connection.org/event/advancing-social-connection-through-arts-culture-and-leisure/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Arts and Culture
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