IN THE WORDS OF CGC CLIENTS...
ANN SELTZER, STAFF LIAISON | CITY OF ASHLAND, OR
"CGC recently provided two separate trainings to our front line employees. Conversations about race can be uncomfortable, and because Emily and Mike are so thoughtful in their delivery, they quickly put our group at ease. They provide factual and practical information about the history of racism in America. Our group was fascinated as they learned about this history through a lens different than they had previously experienced. The group discussions were engaging and thought provoking. We look forward to bringing them back for more trainings."
TINA GRAY, FORMER HR DIRECTOR | CITY OF ASHLAND, OR
"Wow. Just wow. I cannot thank you enough for your amazing presentation. So much of this was new to me personally, so my head is swimming with thoughts and ideas. I’d love to talk soon about some additional steps we can take in working with you. I have been fielding positive comments since we went off line, so our staff was very receptive and appreciative."
TOM BIGBOY, EQUITY DIRECTOR | ROGUE RIVER SCHOOL DISTRICT
“Common Ground Conversations is the perfect name for this facilitated learning experience. Mike and Emily Green created a space for our district to learn and grow together while enlightening the common ground we all share. No conversation was one-sided and everything revolved around data and research. Our team was able to use the data points as opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations rather than getting into opinions and assumptions.”
DONNIE FRAZIER, CIO | MEDFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT
"This was powerful, non-judgmental, thought-provoking and insightful. Thank you for the constant return to a productive and positive context for this discussion."
BRET CHAMPION, SUPERINTENDENT | MEDFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT
"So, so important. Grateful for you!"
LAW ENFORCEMENT
TIGHE O'MEARA, CHIEF | ASHLAND, OR POLICE DEPARTMENT
"Mike and Emily have an incredible presentation that speaks to the history of our nation and how race issues have been a focal point throughout so much of it, much more so than many people (including me) realize. Their presentation brings historical information to us in a non-accusatory manner, asking that we try to go forward in unity with a better understanding of the past "
UNIVERSITY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
STACEY DERRIG, MiM, ASST. DIRECTOR, CORPORATE RELATIONS
"Emily and Mike presented to a group of people through Southern Oregon University Professional Development. It was very well received. Here are a few comments from participants:
- The open dialog. The way Emily and Mike presented the information using history to teach us the relevance to today.
- Mike and Emily’s presentation was incredible, and their communication with the group was so full and compassionate.
- The comprehensive historical research - I had so many 'I didn't know that!' moments!
"I participated in the workshop as well and learned a lot. I like the way historical information was presented to understand how we got to where we are today. I would highly recommend Emily and Mike."
PASTORAL
SHAWN SAMPSON, PASTOR | LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH
“We have hosted CGC twice for our Corvallis community. Each time Mike and Emily did an exceptional job facilitating. The balance between customizing the experience to the crowd's needs and moving us through important learning material was very well done. They were open to dialoguing about any question. The space felt safe, allowing for a refreshing authenticity. Each time we were left with a broader understanding of the challenges of 'Race in America' and clear action steps for what we could begin to do to make a difference. Can't recommend them highly enough.
"As a Pastor, I am always looking for how we can create a more just and loving society. CGC provided an excellent opportunity for us to wrestle with the challenges of racism both in people and systems in a way that enlightened and motivated us! We were moved by Mike and Emily's patience and care as they challenged our assumptions, helped reframe our thinking, and offered us a loving and compassionate way forward."
COMMUNITY NONPROFIT
STEPHANIE MENDENHALL, RECLAIMING LIVES & RECOVERY CAFE
Stephanie Mendenhall is the Executive Director and Founder of Reclaiming Lives and the Recovery Cafe of Medford, Oregon. In her own words ...
"We hosted a half day training with Mike and Emily Green from Common Ground Conversations for our staff, board and volunteer Circle Leaders. Sixteen people were seated at round tables with 3 to 4 people at each table. We started with an icebreaker and then Mike and Emily lead the group through a series of sessions and discussion questions.
"From the beginning, we felt safe and like everyone in the room was valued and had something to share. The materials were presented in an educational format with no disrespect or feeling of one race being better than the other. Their historical knowledge of Oregon and the nation was well researched and thought out. The presentation style was engaging, and the slides and workbook were very professional. There was time given for both group discussion/questions and small table discussions.
"In remembering how we felt that day, the team described this experience using these words:
- Welcoming/Inviting
- Opportunity to get curious
- Set groundwork for learning
- Presented history/facts
- Understood their audience
- It felt safe to share
- They listened and cared about what was said
- Good perspective – How do we end the lies about our state/nation’s history and speak the truth to the next generation?
- Equitable community – Raising other cultures up
"At the end of the presentation, they asked the group to think creatively about hosting an event where different cultures could come together and interact. Emily said our group had some of the most creative responses. Everyone left with a lot to think about and a sense of hope."
