Overview: Quick-Start Guide to Hosting Transformative Community Gatherings
If you’re ready to bring people together around what matters most—but don’t want to waste time planning every detail or being “in charge”—this is for you. This simple resources introduce you to a powerful, flexible format you can use to gather community members, spark action, and create momentum without burning out.
This short course is designed to give you just what you need to get started:
A simple, proven summit structure. You’ll learn how to use the same format I’ve used to host summits with as few as 30 people and more than 300, all with no agenda, and each with powerful outcomes.
Quick video and written guides. You'll get short, focused resources that walk you through the process—from inviting people to creating the space for real connection and action.
Real-life examples. See how this format has led to new coalitions, campaigns, and even people running for office.
This isn’t a theory course—it’s a launchpad tutorial. Whether you're planning something big or just exploring the idea, here’s how to make it count:
🧡 Be supportive. If others share their plans or hesitations, show up with encouragement. We’re building a culture of confidence and creativity.
🌀 Share what you’re working on. Whether you have a full plan or a half-baked idea, your work-in-progress could inspire someone else.
🔍 Think big, act local. These summits are tools for real change in real places. Use what’s here to imagine what’s possible where you live.
Starter Kit Google Doc
View or Download the Starter Kit here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1koEa_DrSLsRBiuvyB7ykiFv-jaOVd_OOBGVUU1QzuFI/edit?usp=sharing
A Practical Guide to Launching a Summit for
Local Organizing, Collaborative Action, and Leadership - L.O.C.A.L.!
Prepared by Kai Degner, SIMPLER Leadership LLC
This Start Kit is designed to help you and your team bring a L.O.C.A.L. Summit to your community. Whether you're starting from scratch or already connected to local organizations and efforts, this guide walks you through a streamlined process to convene your neighbors, spark action, and build momentum around shared values.