From invitation to inclusion: how to create belonging in everyday spaces

SALT LAKE CITY— We hear and communicate warm, and welcoming sentiments all the time. At a neighborhood cookout, at church or school meetings, but do we genuinely mean it? Therapist Kristin Hodson has observed that meaning it and doing it are two different things. She has cultivated a greater sense of belonging in our everyday lives. She shared how belonging is one of the most fundamental human needs, and how we are missing it.

Get clear on your actual purpose then let it be the golden thread of the event.

Hodson said she feels everyone wants to feel welcome. Where it stops is how people are going beyond extending the invitation, and with intention. She said when someone is designing an event, they are so focused on the agenda, guest list and decorations. They are not thinking about the people in the room and how they will feel when they arrive to the event. "Belonging is left to chance, and it's often the responsibility of the person, not because we're creating it," Hodson said.

‘All are welcome’ is an intention, not an action.

Instead of starting with the logistics, Hodson said to start with the purpose of the event. She gave an example of hosting a gathering with her staff once a week at her mental health clinic. This gave therapists a chance to connect with each other, when normally this isn't the case. Hodson said to think, "Who's going to be in this room, and how to I make them comfortable?" Think of dietary needs, other people on the guest list and how to make everyone feel welcome.

Design for the person least at home and watch everyone benefit.

Hodson shared an example of the Americans with Disabilities Act created more inclusive sidewalks. She said the sidewalks were designed for people who use a wheelchair, but it ended up helping more people. People with bikes, strollers and scooters also benefited from the sidewalk adjustment. She said this example can be used in planning an event. "If we're designing for the person who's least comfortable, if the goal is belonging, then it raises it for everybody," Hodson said.

B**e intentional about the activity, not just the invitation.** 

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