COMMUNITY SUPPORT

 

​

CIRCLE WORK

 

Over the last years Third Siders CAG has worked on many different situations with the Nyland community and it has become  clear that the structure that works best in almost all the situations, is what we call ‘Circle Work’.     Basically, all involved in the situation sit in a circle to do whatever process has been adopted.  The underlying principle,  as it has been throughout human history,  is a time of deep listening  and inclusive participation so that every person’s voice and story can be heard.

 

There are set norms and strict guidelines for how the Circle process will evolve based on the particular situation.     Situations that happen  need different levels of safety, story-telling,  discussion, problem-solving, … .   Every Circle called is designed with a specific process to meet the needs of the situation and those involved, to get to the best outcome.

 

NYLAND CIRCLES

 

Circles at Nyland have been called for many different situations and by individuals or groups/CAGs.  Whenever there is a situation that would benefit from gathering the community  in a Circle to  share stories and/or  support, then a Circle can be considered.  The power of gathering in Circle  can not be understated and so is used when that kind of power is needed.   Whether the need is for support, healing, problem solving, or whatever the need, a Circle process can be created that is fine tuned to meet the particular factors alive in the situation.

 

Although factors that can play out in situations that arise are endless,  there are some general  factors that seem more dominant in determining a process.  For example, the need for safety which relates to harm done is at the top of the list. Tighter norms and processes are important in the Circle process to prevent more harm.  In another type of Circle individual stories can take the whole process, like when sharing  connections about a person who has just passed.   What has already  happened between people involved in the situation and whether it is old business or just happened can determine where to start the restorative process.   Each situation calls for a specific process and those called on to organize the Circle do the planning to create the best possible process.

​

HOW TO CALL A CIRCLE

 

Any Nylander can ask for or even organize a Circle when they see a need. A Circle is a major endeavor and so the recommendation is  to not do it alone.   All CAGs take an  overview in the community related to their specific responsibilities.  They can provide a broader perspective and/or history when considering a Circle that occurs or impacts their domain.  They can also  provide support in getting a Circle organized and facilitating it when it happens.  Well-Being and Third Siders are CAGs that focus on the people and processes at Nyland and one or the other needs to be contacted whenever a Circle is being considered.  Use the Resources below to help when putting together a Circle and always consider the timing at it relates to the situation and to enable people to attend in their busy schedules.

​

​