How do I know if I'm the right person to start a new Local Conversation?

Local Conversations leaders come from all walks of life. This includes everyone from students to retirees, from built environment professionals to passionate laypeople, entrepreneurs, stay-at-home parents, city staff and elected officials, and what we call Strong Citizens. You don't have to be have a a black belt in urbanism to be a Local Conversation leader. You don't even have to be an expert in Strong Towns. What you need more than anything is a passion for making your town safer, more livable, and more inviting using the Strong Towns approach -- and a commitment to working across differences with others to get stuff done.

Just because you are the one to initiate a Local Conversation doesn't mean all the responsibility will be on your shoulders. As you begin to connect with others in your area, your group will benefit from a growing variety of skills, experiences, interests, and personalities. In fact, most of our especially effective Local Conversations have not one leader but a whole leadership team.

We’re looking for Local Conversation leaders who are committed to a challenging but meaningful journey: building relationships, shaping local narratives, organizing for change, and helping their communities become stronger and more resilient. Leadership starts with purpose, requires preparation, and thrives on persistence. If that resonates with you, you just might be the kind of leader this movement needs.

That said, not everyone is called to lead—but everyone can play a role. If leadership isn’t the right fit, you can still support the movement by becoming a Strong Towns member. When a Local Conversation is started near you, we will let you know.

Videos to Inspire You

So what if I'm not a "Strong Towns expert"?

Is there any benefit of being a Local Conversation leader or member? 

How have others found like-minded people to get a group going?