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What is CONNECTIONS Central?

CONNECTIONS Central is an organization that cares about people. We create a safe space for people of all ages to connect through conversation and story sharing. Our meetings provide the opportunity to have fun, meet new people, build relationships, strengthen community bonds, learn & grow as a person, and leave inspired.

 

Positive Effects: CONNECTIONS has been shown to alleviate social isolation and loneliness, inspire empathy, help people see from another’s perspective, and assist in overcoming social division.


Currently, we offer CONNECTIONS gatherings in Northern Nevada - bringing people together to share stories, enjoy conversation, meet others, and leave inspired.

We also partner with local agencies and community organizations where there is synergy that allows us to work efficiently together toward a common goal of strengthening the fabric of our communities.

  • CONNECTIONS is a social gathering that connects people of all ages and walks of life through story sharing and conversation. 

  • CONNECTIONS is NOT therapy. You won’t get advice or answers, but you will make connections, hear stories, and have a thought-provoking experience. 

  • CONNECTIONS promotes emotional and physical well-being by connecting with others through sharing stories and conversation.

What is CC
Goal

What is the goal of CONNECTIONS?

The goal is to create something that helps people find meaning, contentment, understanding, and a sense of belonging and relevance in their lives. In doing this, people can live their life from a more positive perspective. 

 

We have learned through testimonials that CONNECTIONS has the potential to cultivate life-changing experiences for many people.

Why

​Why is CONNECTIONS needed?

Humans are innately social beings – it’s that simple. Social connection is not only important, it’s essential for mental wellbeing and physical health. Our current culture presents a number of challenges that create social disruption, isolation, and limit healthy interactions:

• Social media platforms and cell phone mania

• Remote working

• Stay at home parents

• Political division and contention

• An aging population with less opportunities for interaction

• Care takers of elderly relatives

• Changes in life - new to the area, retirement

CONNECTIONS is a positive response that encourages social interactions,  meaningful conversations, personal relationships and offers the catalyst that cultivates change.

Who

Who is CONNECTIONS for?

CONNECTIONS is for everyone!

People of all ages and walks of life who are looking to lead a more contented, happy, and healthy life can benefit from the CONNECTIONS experience -- connecting with others, sharing stories and having meaningful conversations. 

CONNECTIONS is appropriate within any social community, serving many populations, in many settings. The potential is enormous and we are excited to explore opportunities for CONNECTIONS to help more people. 

Help

How will CONNECTIONS help me?

Experiencing CONNECTIONS will…​

  • Offer an opportunity to connect with others – have fun socializing with people from all walks of life that you may not have otherwise met.

  • Provide you a space to share stories and conversation with others.

  • ​Meet new people, make friends, and strengthen the wonderful relationships you already have.

  • Help you see the world around you through the eyes of others.

  • Give you a sense of fulfillment by exploring new topics and diving deeper into discussions you might not regularly engage in.

  • Build a strong sense of community.

  • It may increase joy, optimism, self-confidence, and motivation 

Expect

What should I expect?

The format of CONNECTIONS gatherings varies slightly depending on which one you go to. 

CONNECTIONS Themed Gatherings with a Featured Storyteller (every 3rd Thursday of the month) starts with social time starting at 5:00pm. Everyone gathers at 5:15 for an introduction and a featured story teller who shares a story related to a meaningful experience or relationship in their life. This is followed by small group discussions on the featured topic. The gathering is wrapped up with everyone coming together to share takeaways from each group. Be prepared to leave inspired and happy.

Café CONNECTIONS is an informal gathering that takes place in multiple locations and times throughout the month. Typically, there is a chosen topic or question for discussion. You’ll have engaging conversations, listen to and share stories, and meet new people. Check out the events calendar for dates and times in Carson City, Reno, Sparks, and Gardnerville.

Senior Center CONNECTIONS - It follows the Café CONNECTIONS format.  Please view the events calendar for the location/ dates/ times.

Where

Where are the meetings located?

Currently, CONNECTIONS Gatherings are taking place in Northern Nevada at the following locations:

Community Speaker CONNECTIONS 

Every 3rd Thursday of the month

Brewery Arts Center, 449 W. King Street, Carson City, NV

Café CONNECTIONS 

Schat's Bakery, 1212 S. Stewart St., Carson City, NV 

Old World Coffee/ Great Basin Brewery - 301 N. Curry St, Carson City, NV

Comma Coffee, 312 S. Carson Street, Carson City, NV

Sparks Library, 1125 12th St., Sparks, NV​

New Location in Reno Coming Soon

Senior Center CONNECTIONS

Carson City Senior Center at 1:00 pm every Tuesday. 

Douglas County Senior Center at 1:00 pm the 3rd Monday of every month.

cost

Is there a cost?

This is a free event. There is no cost. All are welcome. 

friend

Can I bring a friend?

Please do! We always encourage our guests to bring friends and family along!

RSVP

Do I need to RSVP?

There is no need to sign up or RSVP. Just come if and when you can and enjoy.

Why people go

Why do people go to CONNECTIONS?​

  • To connect with others face-to-face

  • To have interesting conversations

  • To share and listen to stories

  • To build positive relationships 

  • Laugh and learn with others.

  • To build community ties

  • To make new friends

  • To feel inspried and energized

How they fee

How do participants feel after a CONNECTIONS event? 

"Wonderful and happy."

"Energized. My batteries are charged."

"I feel more positive about life."

"Refreshed and motivated to take care of things in life."

Why Facilitators

Why do CONNECTIONS Gatherings have trained Facilitators? 

Group facilitators play a vital role in the success of CONNECTION Gatherings by creating a structured, inclusive, and respectful environment where all voices can be heard. They guide the conversation with purpose, ensuring it stays focused on the goals while allowing space for diverse perspectives to emerge. By managing dynamics such as dominant speakers, hesitant participants, or potential conflicts, facilitators help maintain balance and psychological safety within the group. They also encourage active listening, clarify misunderstandings, and synthesize ideas, making it easier for the group to understand and find meaning in the conversations. Ultimately, skilled facilitators model positive social skills, building trust, engagement, and a sense of belonging within the group. Facilitators can turn Gatherings into transformative experiences.  

 

CONNECTIONS Facilitators are trained in specific language and techniques that are rooted in Positive Psychology and Motivational Interviewing. Training Sessions are held periodically throughout the year. Please contact a CONNECTIONS team member to learn more.

start CC

​How do I start my own CONNECTIONS?

Shoot us an email at info@connectionscentral.org

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