A Family and Community Town Supper (FACTS)
is an energetic, interactive event that brings people of all ages,
race, and socioeconomic classes together to discuss important issues
over a meal.
FACTS were created to:
- Build and strengthen community bonds
- Bridge gaps between people of different ages,
races, belief systems, and classes
- Promote family involvement and communication
- Provide opportunities for youth to participate
as equals
- Encourage citizenship and community involvement
- Build support for community initiatives
Basic
Model
FACTS
usually lasts about two hours. It is organized around food and issues
of interest or concern. A general format is:
- Brief presentation by a group or panel (elected
officials, and experts on the issue of concern).
- A meal following presentations, with discussion
occurring at each table. Participants sit in groups of 8 to 10,
seated intentionally with age, gender, and racial diversity in
mind.
- A spokesperson from each table reports on the
opinions or viewpoints represented by the participants at the
table.
- A general discussion takes place, often ending
with action steps and follow-up activities.
A
moderator who is informed about the issue encourages participation
and input from all participants, and facilitates the event.
Topics include such issues as:
- Race and diversity
- Community values
- Tobacco
- Youth empowerment
Toolkit
A step-by-step guide has been developed
to walk you through the process of running a successful FACTS event.
The toolkit is comprised of five sections:
- Staffing
- Program Development
- Event Preparation
- Publicity and Promotion
- After FACTS
The
toolkit is no longer available outside Wisconsin.
Wisconsin residents may contact us at (800) 248-9244 with your questions.
Status
FACTS
is currently under review by the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
as an effective strategy through the National Registry.
In
1997, the Wisconsin State Council on Alcohol and other Drug Abuse
named FACTS an "Exemplary Prevention Program."
|
