Study Circles

A Study Circle is the best way to learn about sustainability.

How does it work? We read choice parts of The Natural Step for Communities and from some carefully selected internet resources, and meet once per week with a small group of our fellow citizens to discuss what we have read and learned. We share our thoughts and experiences on the specific topics, while listening to others, seeing the subject from multiple perspectives. A trained facilitator nurtures each circle.

There are no tests or pop quizzes, no dress codes, no demerits, and no grades!

There are: invigorating conversations, enthused citizens, loads of fun, and a celebratory “graduation” pot-luck—all creating great bonds and a stronger community.

A summer circle is underway. Sign up now for fall circles, scheduled to start the third week of September, 2009. Interested in joining a circle? Please fill out our contact form, and check the “I’m Interested” box to let us know!

Need more encouragement? Read what previous participants have to say:

Inspiring, invigorating, and enjoyable, I thoroughly enjoyed the dialogue and thought-provoking discussion… It also provided a stronger sense of community within Monona. I believe The Natural Step is the future of Monona and hope the city embraces The Natural Step.    — Bob Miller

This was an amazing experience! It was empowering to think that we (the people) can have an effect on the choices that are made in our community—to change from business as usual to a sustainable infrastructure that is socially, fiscally, and environmentally responsible. It’s a win, win, win situation!    — Laura S. Gavins

Participating in the TNS study circle was a great experience for me. From it I gained:

1) an “attitude adjustment!” Prior to this I rarely thought “green” and now it’s pervasive for me. I think this is key—many, many, many in today’s society need this attitude adjustment.

2) education. I learned of true stories of what has worked well for others (mostly in Sweden).

3) networking. It has been great to meet others who share this interest/way of life.

4) HOPE. This is not just talk—it is action to effect change!    — Jill Ruffridge

This study circle helped to make me more aware of things that I personally can do to be more environmentally friendly. I loved sharing with people in the class. Their examples role-modeled for me what can be done on a daily basis. Being in the class motivated me to try a few things in my environment. This study group opened our minds to the potential of change.    — Judy Fritz and Richard Fritz

I more or less “fell” into the study circle, not at all realizing what I was in for. I was dubious about committing the time. I was very happy I did commit the time! It was important to make contact with Monona residents who share my concerns. It also gave me a feeling of empowerment. For years I’ve read about and seen the self-destructive course without knowing what I could do.    — Sig Midelfort

Great sharing and camaraderie!!    — Kate Heiber-Cobb

The ideas and point of view that emanated from the group demonstrated wisdom and provided inspiration. I appreciated the fact that we didn’t take ourselves too seriously, but that we took our subject matter seriously and kept our focus on how we can affect positive change in Monona. Getting to know some residents of Monona that shared our views of sustainability was, by itself, worth doing the study circle.          — Tom Heiber-Cobb

Really good for support and community building. This facilitates not only consensus-building, it aids in setting directions for community.    — Paul Gavins

Great people. Great ideas. Great fun. The discussion group was a great way to learn while also promoting positive change.    — Andrew Taylor

I am the ultimate consumer. I felt uncomfortable at first, but I felt totally accepted because everyone said that educating and raising awareness and changing the trend was all that mattered. I am comfortable that there are a lot of interesting “green” projects that will create more interaction among our diverse neighbors we may rarely get to know. The community can rally around and be proud of how we care for our community.    — Kristin Yates

A great experience, opportunity to meet more of the community and share ideas and strengths. I will miss our Sunday night meetings. I hope to continue the relationships formed in our circle.    — Jessica Ace

Illuminating and encouraging. True sustainability seemed like a nice dream that could never be realized. However, The Natural Step shows examples and methods to make a sustainable society. This task starts with shared values and realistic goals.    — Carl Millholland

It is always a pleasure to get into a group that is pretty narrowly focused and then learn that each member brings real, new knowledge to the endeavor. That was my experience. The breadth and depth of ideas generated was stunning—and often very doable. Deciding to do something and then actually doing it are two separate things. We’ll see what actually gets done, eh?      — Lindsay Wood Davis

I learned a lot, but very little of it came from the book. [The facilitator] and the members of my group were an incredibly rich source of information, and I was really inspired by them. We talked a bit about politicians; I wish that voters would push their representatives to take this class. I think it would make a huge difference in all of our communities.    — Maria Sadowski

 

I thought that the whole experience was worthwhile and educating. From the initial information, signup process, and meetings, to follow-up via email, everything was very professionally run. Respect for everyone in the group was noticed. I especially was impressed by the notion that the study circles contribute directly to any community or action.    — Ed Peters

Fill out our contact form, and check the “I’m Interested” box to let us know!

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