Building Bridges: How Civility Training is Transforming Workplaces and Communities

In today’s polarized climate, civility training is becoming increasingly crucial for fostering respectful and effective communication in diverse settings. The Institute for Civility is seeing a surge in requests for our programs as political, racial, gender, religious, and generational differences continue to spill over into the workplace. Organizations across various sectors—businesses, educational institutions, government bodies, and more—are seeking guidance on managing growing tensions and addressing incivility among their teams. That’s where we come in.

Recently, we had the privilege of conducting a two-day civility training workshop for over 300 faculty and staff at Red Rocks Community College in Lakewood, Colorado. Unlike many training sessions that divide participants by departments or roles, our approach brought everyone together. This inclusive setting allowed individuals to connect with colleagues outside their usual circles, fostering a sense of unity and understanding that transcended job titles and hierarchical positions.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants engaged enthusiastically in our listening and communication exercises, as well as team-building activities. Many found a renewed perspective on the importance of civility in daily interactions, recognizing it as a foundational element for a harmonious workplace and community.

At the Institute for Civility, we are committed to bringing our transformative civility training programs wherever they are needed, whether in-person or virtually. If you believe your community, business, or educational institution could benefit from our training, please contact us. Together, we can cultivate a culture of respect, understanding, and collaboration.

To learn more about the Institute’s mission to reduce polarization and foster respect and dialogue, visit our Mission and Vision page.