​Jennifer Dawn Erb, Vice President of Finance and Operations at the Interactivity Foundation, passed away on January 11, 2025. Over her 35-year career, she became the heart and soul of the organization, known for her meticulous attention to detail, kindness, and ability to connect with others. Outside of work, Jennifer was deeply involved in her community and a lifelong learner, recently earning a degree in Business Administration. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of compassion and excellence. Read more about Jennifer's impact in the blog post below and on IF's site here.

Join NCCD Member and Future Search co-creator Sandra Janoff and Michael Donnelly for the P-10 Facilitation Training in Philadelphia on May 20-22, 2025. This in-person workshop is a unique opportunity to learn hands-on strategies for leading more effective, inclusive meetings in today’s complex world. Participants will gain practical tools to foster collaboration, engage stakeholders, and navigate high-tension discussions. The training fee is $800, with financial accommodations available. Don’t miss this chance to learn from leading experts in whole systems change. Read more in the blog post below.

NCDD has launched a communications survey to help you maximize your membership benefits! This brief 5-7 minute survey will shape how we deliver content, create networking opportunities, and showcase your work. Your feedback ensures you receive the right information through your preferred channels and helps us amplify your expertise to our broader network. Take the survey today to directly influence the resources and opportunities you receive as an NCDD member. Enter to win a NCDD Care Package by submitting your survey! Read more in the blog below.

NCDD Network Partner, ​The National Association for Community Mediation (NAFCM) is accepting nominations to join their Board of Directors. Applicants from all parts of North America and representing a variety of backgrounds are welcomed and encouraged to apply.  Elected nominees will serve a three-year term and will join current board members in efforts to grow, develop and strengthen the field of community mediation.  The 2025 call for board nominations is now open until March 21, 2025. Learn more in the blog post below and on NAFCM's site here.

We thrilled to announce to the Karissa Raskin to CEO of Listen First Project (LFP)!
LFP founder Pearce Godwin steps down as CEO after 12 years while continuing as Senior Advisor and Board Chair. Raskin, the former Director of Coalition Engagement, will lead the organization's mission to reduce polarization in America. Please join us in congratulating Karissa on her new promotion! Learn more in the post below.

NCDD friends, the McCourtney Institute for Democracy, is offering an incredible opportunity for D&D organizations to host an intern from their Nevins Democracy Leaders Program. The Nevins Fellows program, presented by the McCourtney Institute for Democracy, provides students with hands-on experience at organizations dedicated to bridging divides and fostering collaboration. Through coursework and immersive internships, students develop the skills necessary to facilitate conversations and work toward bipartisan solutions. Applications for the Summer 2025 cohort are now open, with a Friday, February 17 deadline. Learn more in the blog post below and on their website here. 

​NCDD member organization, the National Civic League, is accepting applications for the 2025 All-America City Award until Thursday, March 6th. This year's theme, ‘Strengthening Environmental Sustainability through Inclusive Community Engagement,’ seeks to identify communities that are advancing environmental sustainability through collaborative efforts. Only one of the featured projects has to relate to the theme, so they welcome communities addressing other challenges as well. Learn more in the post below and on NCL's site linked here.

NCDD Network Partner, the International Listening Association (ILA) is hosting their next convention. Join the 46th Annual ILA Convention, July 30–August 2, 2025, at the University of Maryland. Explore the theme "Listening S.O.N.G." through keynotes, workshops, and networking. Submit proposals by January 15, 2025, and connect with experts across diverse fields to advance the art of listening. Learn more in the blog post below and read more on the website here.