Together We Decide – How to Improve Group Governance

Description

This course is open to members of the Lewiston-Auburn Senior College and other Maine Senior Colleges. To become a member, click HERE.

INSTRUCTOR: Craig Freshley
COST: FREE
WHEN: 5:00-6:30 PM, September 21
WHERE: Auburn Public Library, Conference Room
**This is an IN-PERSON class

Registration for this course will end on September 19, 2026

COURSE DESCRIPTION: If you serve on a board, council, or committee – or maybe you’re a community organizer or part of a club – or perhaps you’re thinking to get more involved in the leadership of your group - this session will provide you with practical tips and strategies for your group to function more efficiently and with less conflict. We will dive into the popular book Together We Decide, An Essential Guide for Making Good Group Decisions, led by the Author. Craig will share group dynamics theory, tell stories, and explain simple principles and steps for optimal group functioning. Bring your specific questions and challenges! Although not necessary, it will help if you have a copy of the book. If you would like one at a discount, contact Craig (Craig@Freshley.com) 

INSTRUCTOR BIO: Craig Freshley is a Maine-based speaker, author, and professional meeting facilitator who helps folks get along and work together better. As the founder of Good Group Decisions, he’s helped hundreds of groups — from nonprofits and governments to businesses — be more efficient, collaborative, and productive.

Craig’s book Together We Decide: An Essential Guide for Making Good Group Decisions was an Amazon #1 New Release and Top-10 Bestseller, praised for its practical insight and inspiring ideas. He has also won the American Civic Collaboration Award for creating Make Shift Coffee Houses — community forums where Democrats and Republicans gathered to understand each other.

Over his career, Craig has facilitated 3,000+ meetings, developed hundreds of actionable tips and videos on collaboration, and built a reputation for transforming how groups work together.

Craig holds degrees in Political Science, Philosophy, and Public Policy, and his early career included roles in Maine state planning and nonprofit leadership. He lives in a cohousing community and embraces Quaker values of respect, curiosity, and shared purpose.