A few weeks back we made a quick mention about our plans for "Type 1 Talk" on World Diabetes Day, November 14. The program was highlighted again in Scott Strange's blog post from this week, After an Open Letter, the JDRF Opens Up--Part II, so I thought now was the perfect time to share some more details about the program and hopefully get your feedback.
Why are we hosting Type 1 Talk? There are 3 main reasons. First, the most consistent piece of feedback we get from our Advocates is that they want to be more closely connected to others affected by type 1 in their community. Second, we'll also get the question, "What are you doing for World Diabetes Day?" And third, we find that our Advocates are always looking for more information about the progress that JDRF is making to treat and cure type 1. So, to bring all of this together, we've come up with Type 1 Talk.
I think the easiest way to describe what Type 1 Talk is all about is simply that this is a day of house parties and meet-ups (or whatever you'd like to call these get-togethers) taking place across the country. Participants will have the chance to meet new people in their community, view a live streaming video presentation from JDRF staff and volunteers, ask us questions, and then continue those conversations at their local events. To make sure that we are addressing issues that you'd like to discuss, we'll be asking you to submit your preferred topics and vote on them, using Google Moderator, in early October.
The last major component of Type 1 Talk is how you'll go about hosting an event or searching for one to attend. In early October, we'll be launching a brand new Type 1 Talk Facebook application where you'll be able to post an event and search for one in your area. You'll also be able to talk with other Type 1 Talk participants, access event resources, and easily get the word out to your network of friends to join in. Just yesterday I introduced the application to some JDRF staff and volunteer leaders and I'm looking forward to working with them (and hopefully you) to create an interesting and rewarding event!
We'll keep you posted as we get closer to the launch date, but for now, what do you think about this concept? What would motivate you to participate? Do you already have some suggestions on presentation topics or presenters? Please let us know what you are thinking by posting your comments below.
Hi Melissa,
I'm really looking forward to it and think it will a great opportunity for people to get involved with each other
I am really, really excited about this! This is the kind of thing we adult T1s need. Eager to hear more details about how this will actually work.
I think this will be so much better than some "pity parties" I've been to in the past. We all want answers to some questions and this could be the way to receive them. Bravo!
When will this be for exact..
@Hannah, the events will take place across the country on Sunday, 11/14 in the afternoon. (Probably around 3pm Eastern time.) The event tool application should be available the first week in October. We'll continue to post updates about it here on the blog!