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Events

MAFN workshops feature a variety of topics related to deepening and broadening the skills of facilitators. Our workshops are designed to be interactive and provide experiential learning for all participants as they learn from the expertise of others. 

MAFN offers a variety of learning opportunities, such as monthly online workshops, networking events, in-person 3-hour workshops, communities of practice events, and various multi-part online learning series.  Our individual online workshops offer grounding and resources on the focus topic and are included in MAFN membership.  In-person workshops and multi-part learning series offer more time for discussion and practice and are discounted for MAFN members.

See details below for upcoming events. 

MAFN offers a wide range of learning opportunities to develop new skills and master new techniques and approaches. For almost 20 years, MAFN has been the leader in professional development opportunities in facilitation across the Mid-Atlantic region. Catering to all levels of facilitation experience, MAFN's workshops receive rave reviews from participants!

Upcoming events

    • 08/18/2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • “Bear Cage” room at Bear Branch Tavern (133 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180)
    • 4
    Register

    Come join us Monday, August 18th, 2025 from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM EDT with optional lunch afterward, for our monthly Vienna MAFN Salon!

    Each month, we will have a topic or theme as well as open time for networking and sharing challenges and best practices in our facilitation. 

    THIS MONTH'S TOPIC: Gaming for Facilitation: We will be playing a game that a facilitator can use for a simple bonding exercise or a deeper dive for strategic planning and priorities.

    Afterwards, those who are available are invited to stay and share community over lunch. 


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Connection + Conversation + Community = Salon

    • Come open to listening and sharing


    Salon REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight 2 days before the event.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions with any additional details 5 day in advance of the event. Please be sure to check your email.

    • Salon discussions are live events and are not recorded.

    • For membership questions contact info@mafn.org


    • 08/22/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    • 14
    Register
    • 08/25/2025
    • 12/22/2025
    • 5 sessions
    • Online using Zoom
    Register

    Duration: 60-Minutes 

    4th Monday each month at noon


    The MAFN Small Business Community of Practice (CoP) is a group of MAFN members with small facilitation businesses who work together to improve their business knowledge and skills through support, innovation, and shared resources.  This CoP will be a co-creation space for MAFN members to host, bring topics to the table and use this space to support one another, innovate and share resources. We are seeking volunteers to join as co-facilitators and tech hosts.


    Responsibilities include:

    • Ability to work with other leaders to identify a topic each month.
    • Ensure there are a minimum of two facilitators each month.  
    • Commit to shared responsibility for 6 months (you do not need to facilitate, host or attend each CoP) to help strategize the future of the SB CoP.
    • For those interested in volunteering, please contact christine@swangnomy.com.

    Mission:

    To foster a learning environment where members can exchange knowledge, tools, and resources to manage and grow successful facilitation businesses.

    Benefits:

    • Collaboration: Connect with like-minded professionals to co-create and innovate.
    • Business Expansion: Gain insights into marketing, client engagement, and scaling small facilitation businesses.

    If you're passionate about facilitation and looking to enhance your small business, this community will provide the resources, inspiration, and support to help you thrive.


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Come open to learning

    • Bring your questions, share your expertise

    • Don’t expect closure - our shared learning is a process!


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    ONLINE CoP Discussion REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight the day before the discussion group.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.

    • MAFN CoP discussions will not be recorded in order to support space for learning.

    • For registration or membership questions contact info@mafn.org.

    • 08/28/2025
    • 2:00 PM
    • Online Event via Zoom
    • 14

    Meeting banner


    Sample Game Session

    Aug 28th, 2025 02:00 PM EDT

    Online Event via Zoom

    Click here for more information and to register. 


    Seeking fresh approaches to team development? Experience our innovative game-based learning method that drives real culture transformation—boosting engagement, leadership, and accountability. Join our 30-minute sample session with an expert facilitator to see how our play-based approach sparks meaningful insights and conversations. No cringeworthy icebreakers or trust falls—this is next-generation team development. Curious?

    Connect with us at info@barometerxp.com.




    • 09/08/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Java Nation 11120 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852
    • 12
    Register
    • 09/08/2025
    • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    • 16
    Register
    • 09/10/2025
    • 09/12/2025
    • 3 sessions
    • Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital in Washington, DC - 921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE Washington, DC 20003


    Join Us for the Ampersand Gathering


    September 10th - 12th, 2025

    9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EDT (Click here for schedule)


    Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital in Washington, DC

    921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003



    The Ampersand Gathering is a three-day in-person event from September 10 to 12, 2025, at the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital in Washington, DC. It will bring together visual practitioners, facilitators, coaches, and creatives to connect, collaborate, and experiment.

    This event offers a hands-on, playful experience to deepen your skills, build networks, and explore new tools—all in a relaxed and energizing atmosphere.

    Why Attend the Ampersand Gathering?

    • Connect with like-minded professionals from across disciplines.
    • Collaborate and build stronger networks.
    • Experiment with new tools and approaches in a supportive environment.

    What’s Included with Your Ticket?

    • Access to All Sessions: Hands-on workshops, open space activities, and networking opportunities.
    • Meals and Snacks: Lunch, snacks, and beverages to keep you energized throughout the day.
    • Participant Directory: Share your details and be included in the participant directory - including the printed program
    • Event Materials: Receive a printed program booklet with the directory, resources, and more.


    MAFN MEMBERS receive a 10% discount for the full 3-day event ticket (not individual daily tickets)

    ANDMAFN2025


    For more information or general inquiries please contact: 

    hello@ampersandgathering.com


    • 09/15/2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • “Bear Cage” room at Bear Branch Tavern (133 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180)
    • 10
    Register

    Come join us Monday, September 15th, 2025 from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM EDT with optional lunch afterward, for our monthly Vienna MAFN Salon!

    Each month, we will have a topic or theme as well as open time for networking and sharing challenges and best practices in our facilitation. 

    THIS MONTH'S TOPIC: TBD

    Afterwards, those who are available are invited to stay and share community over lunch. 


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Connection + Conversation + Community = Salon

    • Come open to listening and sharing


    Salon REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight 2 days before the event.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions with any additional details 5 day in advance of the event. Please be sure to check your email.

    • Salon discussions are live events and are not recorded.

    • For membership questions contact info@mafn.org


    • 09/19/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    • 29
    Register

    We will determine a list of topics/themes in our August Salon, and will update this document afterwards.


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Connection + Conversation + Community = Salon

    • Come open to listening and sharing


    Salon REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight 2 days before the event.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions with any additional details 5 day in advance of the event. Please be sure to check your email.

    • Salon discussions are live events and are not recorded.

    • For membership questions contact info@mafn.org


    • 09/22/2025
    • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    • 50
    Register

    Duration: 90-Minutes


    Date: Monday, September 22nd, 2025 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM EDT

    Work to promote equity, justice, diversity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility is under attack across the U.S. How are you living and working your values these days? This facilitated conversation will explore the changes we’re seeing; how folks are coping with these ongoing attacks; and ideas for continuing to work in these spaces, centering these values. 


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Come open to learning

    • Bring your questions, share your expertise

    • Don’t expect closure - our shared learning is a process!


    ONLINE CoP Discussion REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight the day before the discussion group.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.

    • MAFN CoP discussions will not be recorded in order to support space for learning.

    • For registration or membership questions contact info@mafn.org.

    • 09/23/2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Online Event via Zoom
    • 14

    Meeting banner


    Game Exhibition – Snake Oil

    Sept 23rd, 2025 12:00 PM EDT

    Online Event via Zoom

    Click here for more information and to register. 


    Who says work can't be fun? Barometer XP leads demo sessions for leaders and facilitators who want to add new games to their repertoire. This is next-generation team development. Curious? 

    Connect with us at info@barometerxp.com.




    • 09/26/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    Register


    • 09/30/2025
    • 07/28/2026
    • 6 sessions
    • Online using Zoom
    Register

    Duration: Each session is 75 minutes 


    • September 30th, 2025: Topic - "How do you manage 'stuck' individuals or groups?"
    • November 25th, 2025: Topic - "Working with vulnerability."

    Interested in participating in lively conversations with your peers about where our professional practices intersect?  What can we learn from each other's professional experience, knowledge, skills and abilities?  The MAFN Conversations About Facilitation in Training community of practice explores intersections of three separate but compatible practices of MAFN members: facilitation, coaching, training.  In small-group topic-based breakout-room conversations led by rotating volunteer practitioners, we share best practices, challenges and strategies to stimulate new insight and expand our individual practices.  Topic suggestions and volunteers are always welcome. Come with curiosity; participate with passion; leave with new learning.  MAFN CoPs are member-only forums, a benefit of MAFN membership.


    You are welcome to attend as many meetings in the series as your schedule allows. They will not build on each other. Once you register for the series, you will receive a notification for each meeting.

    Please note that this is for MAFN members only. These sessions will not be recorded.



    Recipient of the inaugural 2024 NYS Justice Peer Initiative Impact Award in Training & Development, Ruth Riddick, CARC-RCP/f, is a coach and trainer with a specialization in addiction recovery and a 20-year practice at Sobriety Together.  She is co-founder and program manager of the New York Certification Board Trainer Registry, an organization of professional trainers enhancing standards in non-clinical role training.  As a curriculum developer, she has contributed to role training for Veteran Supported Recovery, CRPA-Family and CRPA-Youth trainings for professional certifications.  She serves on the Board of the New York Association of Treatment Court Professionals.  She has been widely honored for her work.


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Come open to learning

    • Bring your questions, share your expertise

    • Don’t expect closure - our shared learning is a process!


    ONLINE CoP Discussion REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight the day before the discussion group.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.

    • MAFN CoP discussions will not be recorded in order to support space for learning.

    • For registration or membership questions contact info@mafn.org

    • 10/06/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Java Nation 11120 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852
    • 14
    Register


    • 10/20/2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • “Bear Cage” room at Bear Branch Tavern (133 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180)
    • 12
    Register

    Come join us Monday, October 20th, 2025 from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM EDT with optional lunch afterward, for our monthly Vienna MAFN Salon!

    Each month, we will have a topic or theme as well as open time for networking and sharing challenges and best practices in our facilitation. 

    THIS MONTH'S TOPIC: TBD

    Afterwards, those who are available are invited to stay and share community over lunch. 


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Connection + Conversation + Community = Salon

    • Come open to listening and sharing


    Salon REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight 2 days before the event.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions with any additional details 5 day in advance of the event. Please be sure to check your email.

    • Salon discussions are live events and are not recorded.

    • For membership questions contact info@mafn.org


    • 10/24/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    Register
    • 10/31/2025
    • 12:00 PM
    • Online Event via Zoom
    • 14
    • 11/03/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Java Nation 11120 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852
    • 14
    Register

    Join fellow MAFN members in a lively, casual discussion on all things facilitation.


    Please note that this is for MAFN members only and there is limited space, so please register early. 


    Our guiding principles are:

    • Connection + Conversation + Community = Salon

    • Come open to listening and sharing


    Salon REMINDERS

    • If you register and cannot attend, please cancel to allow someone else to come. 

    • Registration closes at midnight 2 days before the event.

    • Registered participants will receive instructions with any additional details 5 day in advance of the event. Please be sure to check your email.

    • Salon discussions are live events and are not recorded.

    • For membership questions contact manager@mafn.org.


    • 11/14/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    Register

    Duration:  90 minutes

    About the workshop

    This session uses the Troika Consulting structure to help you unlock new insights with the help of two peers. Bring a real challenge—professional or personal—and leave with fresh ideas, stronger connections, and a tool you can use anywhere. This fast-paced format is engaging, energizing, and remarkably effective. It’s great for breaking silos, deepening team dynamics, and showing how powerful peer coaching can be. You’ll walk away with both an experience and a replicable method to add to your facilitation toolkit.

    Learning Objectives

    In this session, participants will:

    • Learn how to facilitate the Troika Consulting method step-by-step.
    • Understand how peer consulting unlocks fresh thinking on complex challenges.
    • Identify opportunities to use peer consulting to build trust and insight.


    NOTE: This workshop will be recorded for distribution to all who register (breakout rooms will not be recorded).

    This is a 90-minute online workshop. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EST.


    Speakers:

    Lee Gimpel

    Lee Gimpel is a professional facilitator and the founder of Better Meetings in Washington, DC, where he helps organizations create engaging and participatory meetings, retreats, and conferences. His work emphasizes collaboration through methods like Liberating Structures, which he uses to help clients like Sodexo, Conservation International, and the US Treasury. Lee is also the creator of the Conference Improvement Kit, a tool designed to improve event interaction. He studied improv at Coalition Theater and Washington Improv Theater, using this experience to infuse his facilitation with creativity and play. He writes about meetings for Forbes and serves on the board of the Association of Meeting Professionals.


    ONLINE WORKSHOP REMINDERS

    • MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years.
    • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
    • Workshops begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.
    • MAFN Members have access to all online workshop recordings via the MAFN website.
    • 11/17/2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • “Bear Cage” room at Bear Branch Tavern (133 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180)
    • 12
    Register
    • 12/01/2025
    • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Java Nation 11120 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852
    • 14
    Register


    • 12/12/2025
    • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    Register
    • 12/12/2025
    • 2:00 PM
    • Online Event via Zoom
    • 14

    Meeting banner


    Sample Game Session

    Dec 12th, 2025 2:00 PM EST

    Online Event via Zoom

    Click here for more information and to register. 


    Seeking fresh approaches to team development? Experience our innovative game-based learning method that drives real culture transformation—boosting engagement, leadership, and accountability. Join our 30-minute sample session with an expert facilitator to see how our play-based approach sparks meaningful insights and conversations. No cringeworthy icebreakers or trust falls—this is next-generation team development. Curious?

    Connect with us at info@barometerxp.com.




    • 12/15/2025
    • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
    • “Bear Cage” room at Bear Branch Tavern (133 Maple Ave E, Vienna, VA 22180)
    • 10
    Register


    • 01/23/2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    Register

    Duration:  90 minutes

    About the workshop

    How can we create workshops that work for diverse minds, bring out the best in everyone, and don’t require people to “endure” modalities that exhaust them? 

    With neuroinclusive facilitation, we aim to create workshop experiences that work well for people with neurological differences like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism, and dyslexia. Importantly, many of the design elements that work for these individuals improve the experience for everyone. We will clarify concepts and terminology, share principles for neuroinclusive facilitation, engage in adapted approaches, and explore how to integrate neuroinclusive design choices in facilitation plans and scoping discussions with clients. 


    Learning Objectives 

    In this session, participants will:

    • Recall concepts related to neurodiversity and how it shows up in the context of facilitation design

    • Explain the value of integrating neuroinclusive design principles in facilitation for all participants

    • Demonstrate the ability to modify a facilitation plan to integrate neuroinclusive design elements


    NOTE: This workshop will be recorded for distribution to all who register (breakout rooms will not be recorded).

    This is a 90-minute online workshop. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EST.


    Speakers:

    Eva Shiffer With over 20 years of professional experience as a facilitator, trainer, qualitative researcher, poet and organizational change facilitator in the public and private sector, Eva focuses on bringing people together to make progress on their most vexing challenges. She enjoys creating processes that allow for the unexpected to emerge, holding space for difficult conversations and inviting the whole person (mind, heart and body) into the room. Her career in international development has honed her skills in intercultural facilitation, and she passionately strives to create facilitated spaces that work for people from different contexts and with different needs. 



    Samantha Levine-Finley - With over 26 years of professional experience, including 16 years as an executive coach, trainer, facilitator, mediator, and organizational learning expert in the federal, nonprofit, and international development sectors, Samantha specializes in developing and implementing solution-focused strategies. Her work emphasizes adaptive management, learning, strategic planning, and collaboration. As an ICF-Certified Coach, she is known for fostering inclusive environments, promoting peer-to-peer learning, and implementing innovative practices to drive positive change and healthy workplaces.


    ONLINE WORKSHOP REMINDERS

    • MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years.
    • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
    • Workshops begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.
    • MAFN Members have access to all online workshop recordings via the MAFN website.
    • 02/13/2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
    • Online using Zoom
    Register

    Duration:  90 minutes

    About the workshop

    Neutrality is something many value about facilitation. However, neutrality can be difficult, especially when the group is engaged in conflict or, even more challenging, when conflict is directed at us.

    In this lively, engaging session, we will explore the concept of neutrality, what it means for us as facilitators, and how to navigate issues of neutrality when surrounded by conflict. We'll draw insights from Deep Democracy, a form of facilitation, conflict resolution, and group process that emerged in South Africa as apartheid was beginning to be dismantled. We'll also consider challenges to neutrality, such as those brought by Bernie Meyer and Jackie Font-Guzman in their book, The Neutrality Trap. 

    Participants will leave with a more nuanced understanding of neutrality and how to remain grounded and effective when surrounded by conflict.

    Learning Objectives 

    In this session, participants will:

    • A more nuanced understanding of neutrality and  its implications for individual facilitators

    • Insights on how to remain grounded and effective when facilitating amidst conflict

    • Experience with two Deep Democracy tools that can be used with groups experiencing conflict


    NOTE: This workshop will be recorded for distribution to all who register (breakout rooms will not be recorded).

    This is a 90-minute online workshop. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EST.


    Speakers:

    Maya Townsend develops human-centered, conflict-positive organizations that bring out the best in people and allow them to collaborate productively across differences. She works with corporations, nonprofits, and coalitions to help identify strategies, mobilize networks, lead change, and resolve conflict. Co-editor of Handbook for Strategic HR (AMACOM), her writing on networks, change leadership, and business ecosystems has appeared in strategy+business, People & Strategy, Nonprofit Quarterly, and other publications. Past clients include the Austin Healthy Adolescent Initiative, Bayer, Biogen, Cambridge Community Development, Fidelity, Hanover Insurance, Headspace, and Open Sky Community Services. She holds an MSOD from American University and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Leadership & Change through Antioch University.



    Ipek Utun’s passion is to contribute to a world where people dare and commit to live and lead with their full potential, with love and strength. Ipek is an ICF-certified PCC-level Coach, ORSCC Certified Relationship and Systems Coach, Certified Shadow Work Group Facilitator and Personal Coach, and Certified Deep Democracy Facilitator, Trainer, and Elder. She has extensive experience in coaching and training C-level executives, senior leadership teams, women’s leadership groups, as well as facilitating small to big group processes, which hold an emotional charge, polarization, and divisiveness. Ipek’s differentiating edge is her capacity to work with the deeper patterns driving complex situations and enabling personal or systemic transformation.


    ONLINE WORKSHOP REMINDERS

    • MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years.
    • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
    • Workshops begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.
    • MAFN Members have access to all online workshop recordings via the MAFN website.
    • 03/04/2026
    • 03/25/2026
    • 4 sessions
    • Online using Zoom
    Register

    Duration:  90 minutes for sessions 1, 2, and 3; 120 minutes for session 4 to allow enough time for facilitation lab.

    • Session 1: 03/04/2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EST
    • Session 2: 03/11/2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
    • Session 3: 03/18/2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
    • Session 4: 03/25/2026 11:00am - 1:00pm EDT


    About the workshop

    As facilitators, we’ve all had moments when the agenda goes off the rails. How do we stay grounded when plans shift—or conflict arises? This 4-session small-group series helps facilitators develop the embodied skills to stay present, responsive, and aligned with group needs in real-time. Through somatic practices, reflection, and facilitation labs, participants will explore tools for self-awareness, navigating automatic reactions, and adjusting their presence under pressure. Designed for facilitators who want to lead with more resilience, integrity, and impact—especially in moments that test them most.

    Learning Objectives 

    In this session, participants will:

    • Develop embodied awareness of how they impact and are impacted by group dynamics.

    • Practice somatic tools for navigating conflict, tension, and uncertainty in facilitation.

    • Strengthen their ability to stay centered, regulated, and choiceful under pressure.


    NOTE:

    • This 4-part series will NOT be recorded.
    • March 4, 11, and 18 are 90-minute online workshops. 
    • March 25 is a 2-hour workshop.


    All four sessions begin at 11:00am Eastern.


    For registration or membership questions contact info@mafn.org.
      • 03/27/2026
      • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
      • Online using Zoom
      Register

      Duration:  90 minutes

      About the workshop

      Join Peter Williamson from Barometer XP to co-create a new game or activity that you can use in your practice! Working in small breakout groups, we'll dive into the science of play, unpacking game mechanics and dynamics in order to draw connections to target learning outcomes. After the session, you'll be invited to follow up with Peter to refine any of the brainstormed ideas to better fit your facilitation style and needs.

      Learning Objectives 

      In this session, participants will:

      • Better understanding of games and how to dissect them
      • Experience remixing games/activities to make them more useful for learning
      • Practice collaborating with other facilitators in the design process


      NOTE: This workshop will be recorded for distribution to all who register (breakout rooms will not be recorded).

      This is a 90-minute online workshop. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT.


      Speakers:

      Peter Williamson is a lifelong game designer and former pro athlete who harnesses the power of play to encourage people to reach higher, learn better, and connect in innovative new ways. He is the Head of Product at Barometer XP and leads regular facilitator certification trainings around the science of play in the workplace.



      ONLINE WORKSHOP REMINDERS

      • MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years.
      • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
      • Workshops begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.
      • MAFN Members have access to all online workshop recordings via the MAFN website.
      • 04/02/2026
      • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
      • Online using Zoom
      Register

      Duration:  90 minutes

      About the event

      Let’s face it: even the best facilitators can find traditional networking... less than inspiring. Awkward intros, surface-level small talk, and that familiar “what am I doing here?” feeling. We've all been there.

      This virtual networking event is designed to connect through play, not pressure. We’ll engage in light, structured activities that spark real conversation, fresh ideas, and potential collaborations.

      No awkward icebreakers. No forced small talk. Just a space to show up as you are, connect with others who do what you do, and leave feeling energized — not drained.

      Come curious, come playful — and leave with new connections that matter


      Learning Objectives 

      In this session, participants will:

      1) Get to know other MAFN members and guests.

      2) Explore shared interests and best practices related to facilitation.

      3) Learning a few games you can incorporate into your facilitation engagements.


      NOTE:

      • We will NOT be recording our Networking sessions.
      • These sessions are FREE for everyone.

      This is a 90-minute online networking event. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT.


      Speakers:

      Alex Suchman is the CEO and co-founder of Barometer XP, whose mission is to create cultures where people are excited about their work because they feel a strong sense of purpose and belonging. She uses games and play to strengthen interpersonal dynamics, such as trust, accountability, and psychological safety, in the workplace.


      ONLINE EVENT REMINDERS

      • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
      • Events begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.


      • 04/24/2026
      • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
      • Online using Zoom
      Register

      Duration:  90 minutes

      About the workshop

      Many organizations are facing adversity due to cuts in federal funding and other changes in federal policies. This means that many clients are facing ongoing hardship. Adversity can cause leaders and staff to become indecisive, hopeless, or unmotivated, thus lessening the impact clients seek to have. 


      Addressing adversity must be part of our work with clients. Facilitators need to consider the challenges that clients may face to provide effective support and ensure that project outcomes are successful. 

      The workshop will explore what happens to organizations when they encounter adversity, and learn strategies and approaches to enhance consultant effectiveness and client satisfaction.


      Learning Objectives

       

      In this session, participants will:


      • Gain a deeper understanding of how adversity appears in individuals and groups
      • Learn a tool for supporting clients to deal with adversity
      • Learn strategies that can help clients facing adverse hardship

      NOTE: This workshop will be recorded for distribution to all who register (breakout rooms will not be recorded).

      This is a 90-minute online workshop. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT.


      Speakers:

      Valerie Graff offers 40 years of working successfully at a senior level, advising and influencing leaders, collaboratively working with senior executives in the areas of organizational change, leadership development, strategic and long-range planning, improving communications and teamwork, assessing culture, strategy, leadership and people processes in meeting organizational mission and goals.  Additionally, she has coached senior executives and executive teams to enhance their performance.  Valerie has been responsible for developing and implementing culture change, communications, leadership and team initiatives that changed entire agencies and organizations.


      ONLINE WORKSHOP REMINDERS

      • MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years.
      • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
      • Workshops begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.
      • MAFN Members have access to all online workshop recordings via the MAFN website.
      • 05/15/2026
      • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
      • Online using Zoom
      Register

      Duration:  90 minutes

      About the workshop

      From Stress to Success is a high-energy, interactive session that uses humor to tackle workplace burnout. It begins with a comedic personal story, then dives into the impact of stress on teams, backed by science and real-life data. Participants learn actionable humor-based tools to reduce stress, boost morale, and foster connection. 

      Learning Objectives 

      In this session, participants will:

      • Understanding the Impact of Laughter on Team Dynamics – Explore how laughter cultivates trust, builds rapport, and strengthens bonds, creating a more resilient and cohesive team.

      • Reducing Workplace Stress through Laughter-Based Activities – Learn practical laughter exercises and techniques that help lower stress, enhance well-being, and create a healthier workplace environment

      • Enhancing Employee Engagement and Morale – Dive into the role of laughter in making work environments more enjoyable, inspiring employees to engage more fully and bring their authentic selves to work.


      NOTE: This workshop will be recorded for distribution to all who register (breakout rooms will not be recorded).

      This is a 90-minute online workshop. It will take place at 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT.


      Speakers:

      Stefano Iaboni is the founder of Smile Solution LLC, a company dedicated to enhancing workplace creativity, bonding, and well-being through humor-driven experiential training.





      ONLINE WORKSHOP REMINDERS

      • MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years.
      • Registered participants will receive instructions for joining the live session and any additional details 1 day in advance and the morning of the event. Please be sure to look for the link in your email.
      • Workshops begin promptly at 12:00PM Eastern.  Please log on at least 15 minutes in advance to ensure your internet connections, audio and other settings are functioning properly.
      • MAFN Members have access to all online workshop recordings via the MAFN website.
      • 06/12/2026
      • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
      • Online using Zoom
      Register

    CANCELLATION POLICY

    MAFN does not offer refunds for events. Anyone who registers for an event will receive a credit that can be applied to any other MAFN event, or to MAFN membership. Credits must be used within 2 years. 

    Support MAFN

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