Mizzou's interdisciplinary research interest groups (RIGs) schedule recurring meetings and special events.
Please email us if you would like your RIG event posted on this page.
Civic Muscle Framework and Index
Nov. 12, noon-1 p.m. (via Zoom)
“Civic muscle” refers to the social and civic conditions that enable communities to build trust, foster engagement, development leadership and sustain actions to flourish and thrive. The Civic Muscle Framework and Index translate these concepts into measurable indicators of:
- Belonging
- Contribution
- Leadership
- Vitality
This presentation will introduce civic muscle and how it relates to community well-being and civic capacity. We also will explore the methodological design of the index, and participants will have opportunities to provide feedback on data sources, indicators and reporting tools.
Presenters:
Register
The ShowMe Connection Project
Dec. 3, noon-1 p.m. (via Zoom)
About half of U.S. adults report feeling lonely, and more than one third report their lives are adversely affected by a lack of close relationships. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, feeling connected to and supported by others in one’s community is a core social determinant of health that influences both mental and physical well-being.
ShowMe Connection aims to help people in rural Missouri feel more socially connected. The program builds social connection capacity and combats isolation by bringing together community partners and MU Extension to provide courses and training focused on relationship skills, physical activity and mental health. This presentation will highlight:
- Research behind social isolation and loneliness in communities.
- The importance of relationships for well-being.
- Strategies for promoting social connectedness.
Presenters:
- Kale Monk, PhD, associate professor of human development and family science; state extension specialist in couple and family relationships
- Candace Rodman, MS, associate extension professor of health sciences
Register