SUGGESTED TOPICS FOR

Marv Thomas, MSW
Author of
Personal Village:
how to have people in your life by
choice, not by chance

DOMESTIC, URBAN, SCHOOL, & INTERNATIONAL VIOLENCE Drawing on his decades-long experience as a leading psychotherapist and relationship counselor, Marv Thomas can discuss the rise of bad communities - why they are becoming increasingly common now, the types of individuals they typically attract, and how to recognize them. More important, Thomas offers suggestions of how to avoid and put a stop to these negative communities and how to foster the formation of "good communities" instead.

THE CHANGING ROLE OF THE AMERICAN FAMILY Thomas's studies have centered on the importance of family and how the family unit has changed over the past one hundred years. He can suggest creative ways in which families can overcome geographic distance to remain close, even though far away.

THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK Thomas discusses simple, yet effective tactics people can use to ingrain themselves in a new setting, to make an "extended family" in their new community. One example is "roaming," where we can familiarize ourselves with both the surroundings and people that make up our new neighborhood. Another example is practicing the "rule of seven," which improves the depth of acquaintanceship with each successive encounter.

WORK IS A COMMUNITY, TOO Thomas helps your audience understand the basic social drives that animate our workplaces. With a few rule changes here and there, your audience can learn the techniques that will help them make the right connections at work-and avoid making the wrong ones.

IT TAKES A (PERSONAL) VILLAGE... Thomas discusses the importance of instilling good values and creating a strong support network for your kids. It's never too early to stress the importance of good relationships with the kind of people that want to help your kids, not lead them astray.