FOR- Nonviolence Training for adults

This FOR program is a response to the numerous requests for nonviolence training we have received. It reflects FOR's desire to join grassroots leaders in strengthening and fostering small communities of support, communities committed to nonviolent social change, and to nurturing themselves through a continual process of reflection and action. The FOR program provides opportunities for more and more people who share the same values and are potential activists to learn about the power and creative possibilities of active nonviolence. It is also valued by long-time acticists who seek centering, reflection, or a deepening of their understanding of nonviolence to sustain them over the long haul.

WHAT is FOR Nonviolence Basic Training?
The Fellowship of Reconciliation's nonviolence training is adapted from a versatile curriculum on the spirituality and practice of active nonviolence called "From Violence to Wholeness" which is designed and readily shared by the Pace e Bene Nonviolence Service. Its holistic approach is directed toward nonviolent personal, interpersonal and social transformation. FOR has adapted and supplemented the curriculum in various ways, with particular attention to reflecting a diversity of spiritual practices and traditions and to nonviolent action planning. With the help of FOR trained facilitators, groups work to understand:

The experience and dynamics of violence
The experience and dynamics of active and creative nonviolence
Nonviolent social change and commitment to action
The building and sustaining community
Practical planning for nonviolent action in daily life

WHO should consider taking Basic Training?
Individuals and groups who want to increase their spirituality and practice of active nonviolence as a way of life and who are committed to transforming our culture of violence will find FOR nonviolence training inspiring and helpful. Newcomers to active nonviolence as well as those who are long time activists, individuals focused on training for their own groups and individuals who wish to become facilitators, groups that are newly-forming and groups that are already established - all are encouraged to consider FOR nonviolence training.

Are trainings open to people of all faiths and beliefs? All FOR trainings, including those sponsored or organized by specific faith groups, are open to people of all faiths and beliefs, unless otherwise noted.

HOW can individuals and communities get involved in FOR nonviolence training?
FOR nonviolence training is being offered in various locations across the country. Take a look at our schedule of upcoming training workshops to find one in your area. Individuals and small groups interested in participating in a scheduled nonviolence training can contact the organizers of the specific training. If there is not a training near you consider organizing one. FOR staff and trained facilitators respond to invitations from groups who can make local housing, meal, and meeting room arrangements and cover basic facilitator expenses and a modest stipend. Community groups and faith communities wishing to organize training should read our information for organizers of nonviolence training and contact FOR to arrange dates.

HOW LONG is the training?
The workshop is about 20 hours long with additional time for meals, individual rest and reflection. It may occur over long weekends or consecutive days or evenings, or a combination of these. Usually it will be a Friday evening, and all day Saturday and Sunday; however, organizers may vary the specific days and times. Participants are asked to be present for all sessions to prevent disruption and to build trust and a sense of community within the group.

HOW MUCH does training cost?
The cost to participants of training varies depending on a number of factors such as meals, housing, the cost of renting facilities in the area and Facilitator travel expenses. FOR requests that organizers arrange or pay for two facilitators' travel, food and housing, and handle logistics for the participants. They will then decide what to charge participants based on their costs. They may, also, do some fundraising. FOR encourages the use of a sliding scale for participants. To find out the cost of a specific scheduled training and availability of scholarships please contact the organizers of that training.

HOW can I become a facilitator?
Becoming a facilitator involves a discernment process and identifying and working with others in your region who can be co-facilitators. You can attend a Basic Training, study the materials with a local group, and discern whether to become a facilitator. Then attend a Training for Facilitators, and decide if you wish to be an FOR Facilitator. A Facilitator will be a member of FOR who can represent FOR values and programs, who has a talent for facilitation, who is committed to nonviolent social change, and who is prepared and available to conduct at least two trainings every year. To find out more look at our facilitator page.

Can a group start nonviolence training without FOR facilitators?
A community group can begin studying nonviolence using the From Violence to Wholeness curriculum book, adapting it to the local context and culture and working through it as a group.