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Safe Zone Conversations - Illinois Park and Recreation Association
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Safe Zone Conversations

Interactive, facilitated discussions that spark meaningful change, foster understanding, and build stronger, more inclusive communities — one conversation at a time.

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About the Program

What is a Safe Zone Conversation?

A Safe Zone Conversation (SZC) is a dialogue among a group of people purposely engineered to discuss human topics that can be deemed sensitive, uncomfortable, or complex in nature. It is an environment of mutual respect and inclusivity — a safe place for people to speak their minds. All comments and questions are welcomed. No judgments.

Join the movement toward a more inclusive future by becoming a host agency for Safe Zone Conversations. These engaging discussions are centered on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and are led by IPRA's Diversity Section Leadership or trained volunteer facilitators.

Why Host

Benefits of Hosting

Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within your organization.

Foster mutual respect and understanding among staff.

Create a safe space for staff to learn and grow together.

Provide valuable training on sensitive topics that build cultural competency.

How It Works

Program Details

Expertly Facilitated

Led by IPRA's Diversity Section Leadership or trained volunteer facilitators.

Interactive Format

Group discussions with time for reflection, sharing, and learning together.

Helpful Resources

Your agency receives additional resources to navigate your DEIB journey.

Engaging Dialogue

Participants explore through dialogue with experienced facilitators.

Easy to Schedule

Each SZC is 90-120 minutes, conducted virtually via Zoom.

One or More Sessions

Choose to host a single conversation or multiple sessions over time.

What Does It Cost?

This service is available in exchange for a donation to the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation, which further supports diversity, equity, and inclusion education. IPRA will invoice the host agency after scheduling the event.

Trusted by Agencies

Agencies That Have Hosted

These Illinois agencies have already hosted Safe Zone Conversations to support their staff's DEIB journey.

Glenview NWSRA LWSRA SSSRA Downers Grove Palatine SSPRPA Directors Oak Brook Champaign St. Charles Deerfield Bolingbrook Carol Stream Sycamore NSSRA WSSRA Mundelein Northbrook Warrenville Highland Park Plainfield River Trails Oak Park Arlington Heights Winnetka Lisle Homewood Flossmoor AARPA Village of Romeoville Vernon Hills Crystal Lake
What Participants Say

Testimonials

Truly inspiring and moving to share and learn as a team in a safe space.
Michael McCartyGlenview Park District
The Safe Zone Conversations exposed me to realities I hadn't experienced before. I feel more educated and aware.
Trisha Palmieri, CPRP
The most open District conversation staff can remember... an overwhelming call to continue.
Jarrod ScheunemannChampaign Park District

Ready to Start the Conversation?

Apply today to host a Safe Zone Conversation at your agency. Once we receive your application, our team will connect with you within 1-2 business days to explore the next steps.

Questions?

Get in Touch

Have questions about Safe Zone Conversations? Contact IPRA Education Director Duane Smith.

Duane Smith IPRA Education Director duane@ilipra.org
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