Bringing Everyone to the Table: How Partnering with Community Colleges Can Transform Your Guild’s Hybrid Workshops.

Hey, fellow makers and guild members!

Let’s talk about something exciting: hybrid workshops. They’re not just a trendy way to host events—they’re a powerful tool for inclusivity. By combining in-person and virtual participation, hybrid workshops ensure that more people can join in, no matter where they are or what their circumstances might be. And here’s the best part: partnering with community colleges can take your guild’s hybrid workshops to the next level.

Why Hybrid Workshops Matter
Hybrid workshops are all about inclusion. They allow people who may face barriers—like mobility challenges, distance, or scheduling conflicts—to participate fully. This format also helps guilds meet ADA compliance requirements by providing accessible options such as captions, screen reader compatibility, and remote attendance for those who need it. As a community, we’re striving to become more inclusive, and hybrid workshops are a meaningful step toward that goal.

Why Community Colleges Are the Perfect Partner
Community colleges are already leaders in hybrid learning. They have the technology, expertise, and spaces to make your workshop seamless for both in-person and virtual attendees. Plus, partnering with them opens up an incredible opportunity: access to a younger audience.

Many guilds struggle to attract younger members, but community colleges are full of curious students eager to explore new skills and crafts. Hosting workshops on campus doesn’t just build your guild—it plants seeds for the next generation of creators and makers.

The Nonprofit Advantage
If your guild is a nonprofit, here’s some great news: many community colleges have a mission to support local organizations and may offer their spaces for free or at a reduced cost. It’s a win-win! You get access to top-notch facilities without stretching your budget, and they get to support meaningful community initiatives.

How to Get Started
- **Reach Out**: Contact the college’s workforce development or community engagement office.
-Share Your Vision: Explain how your workshop benefits both the college and the broader community. Highlight how it aligns with values like inclusion and creativity.
-Collaborate: Consider involving students or faculty in planning or even teaching parts of the workshop—it’s a great way to build connections and share knowledge.

A Step Toward Inclusivity
By embracing hybrid workshops and partnering with community colleges, your guild isn’t just hosting events—you’re creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, where new voices are heard, and where creativity thrives across generations. Plus, you’re ensuring accessibility for all participants while meeting ADA requirements.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s make our guilds more inclusive,