Gilbert Talks

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Gilbert Talks Gilbert Talks is a nonprofit organization fostering constructive dialogue on important issues in Gilbert It is our belief that there is a better way.

The founders of Gilbert Talks see a world of increasingly sharp divisions, entrenched positions, and harsh rhetoric. We think that community dialogue can and should bring us together, not drive us apart. Therefore, it is our goal to host a range of events aimed at doing just that. These issue-specific forums – Talks – will feature local, national, and international experts in a variety of areas engaging with Gilbert residents in interesting and innovative ways. Topics of conversation will touch on a broad range of important issues, such as growth, education, health care, technology, and economic development.

👋 Meet the Facilitator: Ben CooperWe're excited to introduce Ben Cooper, the facilitator for our upcoming Civil Discours...
09/01/2026

👋 Meet the Facilitator: Ben Cooper

We're excited to introduce Ben Cooper, the facilitator for our upcoming Civil Discourse Workshop.

Ben brings decades of leadership experience in business, real estate, and public service. As Managing Director of Watts Gwilliam & Company and previous Chairman of Gilbert Talks, Ben is passionate about helping people engage in thoughtful, respectful conversations—even when they disagree.

His experience serving on the Gilbert Town Council and working with communities across Arizona has given him a unique perspective on the importance of listening, understanding, and finding common ground.

Join Ben for this FREE workshop and learn practical skills to communicate more effectively, navigate difficult conversations, and strengthen your community.

📅 Register today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/civil-discourse-workshops-tickets-1990055049223

⏰ Just one week left to register!Join us in the heart of Gilbert for a FREE, interactive workshop on the basics of civil...
08/27/2026

⏰ Just one week left to register!

Join us in the heart of Gilbert for a FREE, interactive workshop on the basics of civil discourse. Learn practical skills for having respectful, productive conversations across differences—something our communities need now more than ever.

Reserve your spot today:

Fostering constructive community dialogue around issues of importance in Gilbert.

You are invited to join us next month! Register here: eventbrite.com/e/civil-discourse-workshops-tickets-1990055049223Ou...
08/12/2026

You are invited to join us next month!

Register here: eventbrite.com/e/civil-discourse-workshops-tickets-1990055049223

Our Civil Discourse workshop is four two-hour interactive workshops focused on the principles of Civil Discourse, including effective communication, listening, empathy, bias, ethics, and online interactions.

Tonight community leaders gathered at HD SOUTH - Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum to talk about the Gilbert Town Ha...
03/05/2026

Tonight community leaders gathered at HD SOUTH - Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum to talk about the Gilbert Town Hall community.

The mission of Gilbert Talks is to foster constructive community dialogue around issues of importance in Gilbert for purposes of enriching understanding, motivating engagement, and promoting effective policymaking.

These leaders took time away from their work, their family, and themselves to dive into continuing to make Gilbert a great place to live, work, and play.

We are so grateful for everyone’s presence, contribution of time and ideas, and being able to share a delicious meal together.

Big thank you to everyone who was able to attend tonight!

And special shoutout for Twisted Tines catering for making the delicious dinner and to HDSouth for contributing the space for us to come together!

None of this would be possible without the support of these leaders and our 2026 board.

Emily Evans
Jan Simon
Darren Patoni
Libby Pierce

Eddie Cook
Tim Colquhoun

Eric Pettitt
Rudy Apodaca
Marnie Schubert

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Gilbert, AZ
85299

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