First Meeting Ideas

The first meeting of a new circle sets the tone for everything that comes after. If members don’t yet know each other, the goal is to build comfort, trust, and a sense of shared purpose. This meeting should be low-pressure, welcoming, and grounded in connection rather than logistics.

Goals for the First Meeting

• Begin forming relationships and trust among members
• Create a shared sense of purpose and curiosity
• Get a feel for group energy, communication style, and needs
• Keep things simple, spacious, and optional

If There Is No Designated Facilitator

Sometimes a circle meets for the first time without anyone assigned to lead. That is okay. You can start the meeting together by acknowledging this and choosing a simple way to begin.

• Anyone can open by asking, "Would someone be willing to guide us through a basic structure?"
• You can rotate roles as you go. One person can open, another can time check, another can close.
• Start with a shared agreement: "Let's prioritize connection and take turns speaking. No one needs to lead perfectly."
• If needed, you can follow this page as a simple outline for your time together.

Suggested Meeting Flow

• Welcome and Framing (5–10 min): Set the tone by sharing what this circle is about and what the meeting is for. Emphasize that nothing is required and that this is a space of care and curiosity.
• Check-in Round (15–20 min): Invite everyone to share their name, pronouns if they wish, and a few sentences about why they came or what drew them to this kind of group. A gentle opening question can help.
• Connection Activity (15–30 min): See options below. Choose one that fits your group size, time, and comfort level.
• Open Conversation (15–20 min): Let folks ask questions, reflect on how it felt to meet, or share thoughts about what they want from the group.
• Check-out (5–10 min): Invite everyone to say one word or sentence about how they’re leaving the meeting or what they’re hoping for next.

Connection-Building Activities

• Pairs or Triads: Break into smaller groups for 10–15 minutes to answer a few questions, such as:
  • What brought you here?
  • What does community mean to you?
  • What support do you wish you had more of in your life?
• Stories: Invite each person to tell a short story from their life in response to a shared prompt, such as:
  • Tell a story about a time you felt supported by others.
  • Tell a story about a time you stood up for something you believed in.
  Use a talking object to pass around the group if meeting in person.
• Value Mapping: Ask people to reflect silently for a minute on what values are most important to them in a group like this (examples: trust, accountability, humor, mutual care). Then share and discuss what overlaps emerge.
• Dreamstorm: Invite everyone to name one thing they wish this group could do, create, or be part of—without worrying about what is realistic. Then explore what themes show up.

Facilitation Tips

• Start with something grounding, like a breath or moment of quiet
• Be warm and clear, especially for those who may be nervous or new to group spaces
• Remind people that everything is optional and no one has to share more than they want to
• Use a timer if needed to make sure everyone has space
• Celebrate that the group has begun, no matter how small or uncertain it feels

After the Meeting

• Send a short follow-up message with appreciation, notes, and any next steps
• Offer a few dates for the next gathering
• Invite feedback and suggestions for what people want moving forward