common ground
action network

Join a network of on-the-ground leaders building connections in their communities to create safe, welcoming spaces for everyone.

Fill out the application form and learn more.

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What is the Common Ground Action Network?

The Common Ground Action Network (CGAN) gives everyday people — parents, faith leaders, volunteers, organizers, and neighbors — skills to lower the temperature when tensions rise, and build the kind of trust that lasts.

This isn’t about talking. CGAN gives you the real skills and a nationwide network so you can step in, bridge divides, and help your community move forward. After completing the program, you can apply for a $1,500 micro-grant to fund the local actions you’ve identified in your community. We will distribute 5 micro-grants.

Is CGAN For You?

You might be a great fit if you:

Feel stuck watching the same problems repeat in your community.

Are already showing up — as a neighbor, a parent, a volunteer.

Want practical tools, not just good intentions.

Are 18 or older and ready to take on a real challenge.

What you’ll learn: The 4 Pillars

  • Learn to step into tough conversations before they blow up. Spot problems early and help people work through them.

  • Share stories that bring people together. Use social media, radio, and local news to spread hope instead of division.

  • Help people trust their schools, neighbors, and local leaders again. Make sure everyone has a seat at the table.

  • Take real action that makes your neighborhood safer, closer, and more connected.

The fall cohort will meet for seven online sessions on Tuesdays at 8pm ET.

Sessions are scheduled as follows:

Topic

Session

Date

 Civic Trust

Session 3

October 13

September 15

Session 1

Healthy Conflict  

Healthy Storytelling

Session 2

September 29

Session 4

Session 5

Session 6

Session 7

 Strong Communities

Presentations & Closing

October 27

Project Planning

Working Session

November 10

November 24

December 8

Apply Here

build Community trust

We’re only as strong as the trust we have in our communities. As a CGAN Ambassador, you’ll help build (or restore) trust in schools, local government, elections, and neighborhood groups. That means making sure people have fair and safe places to work together on issues that matter.

manage inevitable conflict

Conflict isn’t a bad thing. But it’s important that we know how to deal with it in healthy ways. As a CGAN Ambassador, you’ll learn the skills to lean into productive conflict, spot worrisome tensions early, and stop disputes before they escalate.

tell the right stories

The stories we tell about ourselves and others can change a lot. You’ll get the tools to tell positive stories that break down “us” vs. “them” rhetoric. Leveraging social and local media, you’ll share these stories widely, helping to change conversations online and in-person.

The Common Ground Action Network FAQ

    • This training helps you understand the kinds of conflict that show up when you’re part of a community and provides you with skills and resources to turn that conflict into connection.

    • The program’s built for busy Americans who are balancing work, school, family, and life, but still want to find ways to better their neighborhoods, houses of worship, local governments, and schools. 

    • You’ll learn about healthy conflict, healthy storytelling, civic trust, and strong communities. And how each of those plays a role in creating a safe society where we all belong.

    • CGAN is designed to fit into our busy lives. The program requires a monthly commitment of up to 5 hours, including some self-learning that you can do at any time and a virtual call with your cohort and our team. The self-learning portion of the program can be done anywhere, anytime: On your commute, while cooking dinner, in the shower. Whatever works for you.

    • The things you learn during the course of the program are the kinds of skills you can use everyday, whether you choose to take on a community initiative or simply be a role model for dealing with conflict to those around you. Both are valid. Both are important.

  • CGAN is for any adult across the United States who is tired of our differences stalling our ability to make things happen. You don’t need to be an established leader. You just have to want stronger, more resilient communities and be willing to give your time and energy to building them.

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.

Apply