D&I Training at Exchange
The Diversity and Inclusion Training (D+I Training) was developed for NFCYM Members. Recognizing that diversity alone does not breed cultural competency, this program creates baseline knowledge for ministry leaders through a common language and helps them understand the cultural groups they will encounter, engage, and lead.
A D&I Training session will be offered at 2025 Exchange on
Sunday, February 2, 2025, 1:00-4:30 pm ET at the Crowne Plaza in Atlanta.
What is the D+I Training?
This training has been developed for NFCYM members to better understand how to create a welcoming and inclusive environment in your ministry setting. This training was developed at the direction of the Board of Directors and in consultation with NFCYM members and the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council. This training is in line with Pope Francis’ vision of “a Church that goes out to the peripheries” and one that celebrates the diverse realities of our U.S. Catholic Church.
This training takes to heart Pope Francis’ words that “inclusive growth finds its starting point in a gaze that is not turned in on itself…” And, “As our Church grows and changes, it is important to love all People of God well…” (From his address at the Centesimus Annus Foundation. October 2022) These principles guide the focus of this training.
Who is this for?
The audience includes all NFCYM members, including parish volunteers to diocesan directors and every level in between in parish, school, and diocesan settings.
What is the role of a facilitator?
Facilitators of the training will help lead cohorts through the training process. They must be familiar with the content of the training, have experience in group facilitation and dialogue, and understand the importance of ministry done in diverse settings. They must also be comfortable leading a process in-person or virtually over Zoom.
Why should I be a facilitator?
If you are someone who enjoys accompanying others to reflect on their ministry and to be intentional in how you do ministry in a diverse setting, you would make a great facilitator of this training.
Facilitators will receive a certificate after completion of the training as well as a certificate for completion of the facilitators training. Both can be used as part of your ongoing formation
Facilitators receive a stipend for leading cohorts through the training regardless of whether it is led in-person or virtually.
Register for the Facilitator training
Click the button below to register for the in-person facilitator training that will take place on Sunday, February 2 from 1:00-4:30 pm ET
For those traveling, please arrive in time to be there for the Initial Training Session on Sunday, February 2 at 1:00 pm ET.
We will cover the content of sessions 1-2 in person on February 2. After Exchange, we will do the content of sessions 3-4 virtually via Zoom. A feedback session with those facilitators who are participating in 2025 Exchange will take place during the Exchange program (day and time TBD).
Follow up sessions will take place virtually via Zoom:
- Week of February 24 (Tuesday, Feb 25)
- Week of March 10 (Tuesday, March 11)
If you have any questions, please contact Darius Villalobos at [email protected].

