Planning a Workshop

Planning Guide Worksheet-Download 76KB
Post Workshop
Toolkit-Download 7.63MB
Workshop Location

The workshop should be in a location that has room for people to sit comfortably at tables. One of the most common configurations are for tables to be set up in a U shape or a square. This is so that people can sit and still face each other. Locations must be wheelchair accessible and have convenient parking and bathroom facilities. Community based locations work best. Churches, community centers, senior centers, and community clinics often work better than hospitals. Be sure the location is available for all 6 weeks of the program and will accommodate the needs of the workshop. Comfort for participants and confidentiality are important considerations when selecting a location.

Time for Workshops

It’s important to be flexible and vary the time you offer workshops to accommodate the needs of your community. When targeting specific populations, be sure to select the time to accommodate them the best. Plan workshops for 6 weeks in a row and be sure not to skip a week if at all possible. Consider holidays and seasons in your area (e.g. weather) when scheduling. Generally, summer, fall and spring are good times.

Attendance for Workshops

The ideal group size is 12-15 participants. Maximum group size should be no more that 20 participants. When participants register for the workshop, encourage them to attend all 6 sessions. If someone is going to miss more than 2 sessions, they should be put on a waiting list for future workshops.

Be sure to have a system for keeping attendance.
Workshop Cost and Materials
The cost of the workshop will be an important consideration, one that is unique to the organization and it’s funding. In many organizations the workshop is offered at no charge to participants. Some organizations may consider charging a nominal fee to help sustain the program and to encourage a commitment from the participant. It is suggested that if you charge a fee to help sustain the program, the cost be reasonable and that scholarships and fee waivers be offered for those people who are low income.
Workshop Expenses
  • Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions books (approximately $20/person)
  • Relaxation audio tapes/CD (approximately $10/person).
  • Workshop flip charts—These can be hand-drawn or printed and can be used for more than 1 workshop series ($30-$100).
  • Miscellaneous supplies (blank flip chart pads, markers, Kleenex, pens, masking tape, bottled water).
  • If providing snacks, be sure they are healthy and appropriate for people with chronic disease.

Cost can be reduced by lending the Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions books to those who cannot afford or choose not to buy them.

Planning Guide Worksheet

The Planning Guide Worksheet can be found on the Home page of this website under More Resources menu.