Want to improve yourself and your world?

Become a Ben Franklin Circle Host & Ambassador.

Does this sound like you?

  • You believe in the power of bringing people together
  • You want to take action and be engaged in your community
  • Organizing groups is your thing
  • You enjoy facilitating meaningful conversations
  • You’re interested in the perspectives of others
  • You want to be a part of something bigger than yourself

Ben Franklin Circles (BFC) is a growing movement modeled after Ben Franklin’s mutual improvement club. Circles are small groups of 8-12 people seeking community and share an interest in personal and community improvement. Members get together on a regular basis (typically once a month) to discuss the 13 virtues (themes like Resolution, Order, and Justice) that Franklin deemed as key for living a good life. Circles provide a structured setting for meaningful conversation, in-person connections, personal enrichment, and shared understanding.

We’re looking for people across the country from all backgrounds and ages to host Circles and serve as Ambassadors for the movement!

Circle Hosts recruit participants (8-12 people), organize the meeting time and place, and facilitate discussions on the 13 virtues (we provide meeting templates to make this easy!). Meetings are relaxed; meet at the local library, in your living room, or do as Ben Franklin did and meet at the pub. You’ll need to plan approximately two hours for each meeting to allow enough time for conversation.

You do not need to be a professional facilitator or Ben Franklin Buff to lead a Circle. We provide a template and suggestions for how to structure your Circle, but the ultimate design and flow of the Circle is up to you, the Host.

As Ambassadors, you’ll also help us grow the movement. This means sharing your feedback and experience with the BFC team at 92Y through monthly report, engaging in the Circle Hosts Facebook Group, and serving as a BFC spokesperson in your community.

As part of this opportunity, you’ll be asked to:

  • Recruit 8-12 participants for your Circle
  • Host 14 regular Circle meetings, within one month of being selected
  • Submit brief monthly reports
  • Distribute pre and post surveys to participants
  • Share photos and stories from your Circle
  • Join and engage in the BFC Host Facebook group
  • Attend bi-monthly conference calls
  • Serve as a BFC spokesperson to your community

Perks!

  • Stipend*
  • Experience the personal benefits of participating in a Circle
  • Featured speaking opportunities on webinars/local events
  • Certificate as an BFC Host & Ambassador
  • Recognition on BFC website and featured on BFC blog (like this Circle Spotlight)

Apply to be a Ben Franklin Ambassador/Host:

  • Complete the application: click here
  • *Anyone can start a Circle, but there are a limited number of stipends
  • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, apply early to be considered for the paid opportunity

Want more info?