2019 ACMHE Conference: Radical Well-Being in Higher Education

Based on the work of Parker Palmer, The Circle of Trust© approach includes principles and practices for creating “brave spaces” where individuals can engage in personal and collective discernment. Integrating a variety of contemplative practices (e.g., journaling, lectio divina, meditation), this approach has the potential to transform individuals, families, workplaces, and communities. This poster describes efforts to implement Circle of Trust© practices in a 3-day retreat for participants in a state-wide community development initiative focused on facilitating greater inclusion of individuals with disabilities. The poster outlines and illustrates a variety of retreat components that were used to support participants’ self-reflection and conversations about their shared community development work. In addition, the poster includes discussion of modifications and accommodations of the Circle of Trust© approach that enhanced access and engagement for participants with sensory impairments and developmental dis