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What’s Bridging Blocks?
Bridging Blocks was created to help residents build the skills to engage in civic dialogue while breaking down echo chambers.For more than two years, WHYY has successfully collaborated with the Free Library of Philadelphia, local recreation centers and small businesses to host conversations with hundreds of residents across the city on topics such as gun ownership, reproductive rights, dirt bikes and ATVs, public safety, and many more.
One of our immediate goals is to partner with local schools and senior centers to host Bridging Blocks discussions on topics important to participants of all ages. These discussions will help foster civic dialogue, build community and develop conflict mediation, public speaking, and critical thinking skills.
Testimonials
“So great to hear different perspectives from people I wouldn’t normally meet/ talk to.” – Marisa D.
“Listening is critical to learning- so many ideas” – Kate C.
“Many different views among people of good will.” Bruce H.
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Tony Cuffie | Sr. Manager of Community & Engagement -
FAQs
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Where can I attend a Bridging Blocks session?
WHYY News hosts civic dialogues multiple times a month. On the second Tuesday of each month, Bridging Blocks sessions are held at the Parkway Central Library (1901 Vine St.) from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the fourth-floor Skyline Room. On other Tuesdays, sessions are held at one or two regional libraries. For more details, check out our events page.
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How often do Bridging Blocks conversations occur?
Dialogues are held several times a month at different locations, including Free Libraries on Tuesday evenings and schools or senior centers on other days.
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What is the structure of a typical Bridging Blocks event?
Sessions typically last 1-2 hours, depending on location and community needs. They are discussion-based, guided by a moderator with prepared questions, and include a media piece from a trusted source.
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How are Bridging Blocks topics chosen?
The Community & Engagement team selects topics three months in advance to ensure they are timely and relevant. If you have a topic suggestion, please reach out to us.
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What are some past topics Bridging Blocks has covered?
Past topics have included immigration, public transportation, gentrification, homelessness, public education, reproductive rights, small business, ageism, voting, social media and more.
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Can Bridging Blocks be conducted in Spanish?
Yes, one of Bridging Blocks’ moderators is fully bilingual in Spanish and English.
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How many people typically attend Bridging Blocks events?
Sessions are usually attended by around 10 to 40 people, with an average of about 25.
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How can I get Bridging Blocks to come to my community or speak with my organization?
We’d be happy to discuss a potential collaboration. We host sessions at libraries, schools, senior centers and more. Contact us for more information.
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What is the purpose of Bridging Blocks’ resource documents?
These documents provide a one-stop collection of helpful resources related to the session’s topic, including articles, programs, and opportunities.
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How do I contact WHYY News’ Community & Engagement team?
We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out.
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How do I sign up for the monthly newsletter?
You can sign up here.
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Events
Where: Newtown Public Library 201 Bishop Hollow Rd. Newtown Square, PA 19073
Why is voter apathy so widespread? Should we educate others who choose not to participate?
Philly’s housing market takes center stage during ‘Bridging Blocks’ event
About a dozen residents participated in Thursday’s discussion inside the Walnut Street West Library in University City.
2 years ago
Bridging Blocks has Philadelphians focused on dispelling myths around immigration
Context and understanding was at the heart of Bridging Blocks’ latest talk, which addressed border policy and immigration during an election year.
2 years ago
Listen 1:03Despite diverging viewpoints, attendees agreed that stronger support systems are needed for children and families.
2 years ago
WHYY News to host its first civic news conference May 3-4
The events are open to the public and free to attend, but registration is required. A panel will feature journalists implementing civic dialogue and community building.
2 years ago
WHYY News hosted a conversation at the Chestnut Hill Library in Philadelphia to discuss the ruling in Alabama and the June 2022 overturning of Roe v. Wade.
2 years ago
Bridging Blocks event unearths the impact of Philly’s Mummers
The significance of Philadelphia’s Mummers tradition was the focal point of a WHYY News and Free Library of Philadelphia community discussion.
2 years ago
WHYY and the Free Library of Philadelphia held a Bridging Blocks discussion Thursday on the Mummers, and how they want to shape the tradition for future generations.
2 years ago
Listen 1:39The nearly two-hour conversation centered on youth homelessness — a growing problem in the region, according to recent city data.
2 years ago
Listen 1:10Bridging Blocks program at WHYY News promotes civil debate among neighbors
The discussions have tackled everything from voter turnout and preservation to ATVs and motorbikes.
3 years ago
South Philly residents discuss supervised injection sites at Bridging Blocks event
Opponents and supporters of supervised injection sites gathered at South Philadelphia Library to plead their case on the best solutions for opioid addiction.
3 years ago
Listen 1:27As Philly gears up for its mayoral election next month, WHYY’s Bridging Blocks team raised the question: Will this next election season have low voter turnout? If so, why?
3 years ago
Listen 1:31North Philadelphians discuss involving youth with historic preservation during Bridging Blocks event
North Philadelphians talked about the importance of engaging with the youth to preserve Philadelphia’s history.
3 years ago
Listen 1:01South Philly residents discuss signs of gentrification during Bridging Blocks event
Attendees at the Guerin Recreation Center discussed the obvious and not-so-obvious signs that gentrification is about to impact a neighborhood.
3 years ago
Listen 1:07The conversation focused on the influx of wealth and redevelopment of Philly’s neighborhoods.
3 years ago
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