Applying as a Group Facilitator

One World is always on the lookout for the right people to facilitate its programs. These are not paid positions, although we are often able, if necessary, to at least partially subsidize the costs of participation for facilitators.

As in similar organizations, we are looking for people who have group experience — ideally, including working with consensus decision-making; and cross-cultural experience — ideally, in one of the One World destinations. In some cases the ability to speak the local dialect is also an asset (although not necessarily a prerequisite).

One World differs from many similar organizations in that we use consensus decision-making. We are not looking for group leaders, but rather group facilitators—people who can facilitate the consensus decision-making process from within the group. In that regard the facilitator cannot make decisions for the group; he or she makes decisions with the group. As do all members of the group, facilitators have the ability (and the responsibility) of blocking unwise or unethical decisions and ensuring that the group is living up to its commitments. For these reasons, experience and familiarity with consensus decision-making is also a quality that we are looking for in those wishing to facilitate One World programs.

Facilitators must, of course, make the same commitments as do other participants — commitments to their hosts abroad, to their fellow participants, and to the goals of the program. Their primary contribution will be to act as an internal group resource that will help the group meet the many challenges of the trip; and to help ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.

One World has decided not to have programs when there is no designated facilitator. Ideally there would be two facilitators, and a good gender balance. One World offers three-day facilitation workshops for new facilitators.

There is one additional responsibility unique to facilitators — there are circumstances in which facilitators are empowered to make decisions without group consensus. When the behaviour or attitude of a group member presents a serious and persistent threat to the safety and well-being of themselves, their hosts or the group, or when it impedes the group’s ability to live up to its commitments, then a facilitator — together with the Working Group here in Canada — can decide to expel a member from the group.

Before applying to become a One World facilitator, you are encouraged to review the contents of this Web site to determine whether or not One World programs are really something you are suited to and would like to be a part of. Special attention should be paid to One World’s Commitments and Philosophy and Goals. If you are still interested in facilitating an eight-month program (September to April) or the six-week summer Mexico program, send a letter to:

One World—Facilitating
658 Rockway Drive
Kitchener, ON
N2G 3B4

Or send a fax to:

1-519-743-4204