Programs - Downtown Community Forum


	"While it comes from our mission as a downtown church, the DCF presents itself as non-denominational. It is critical to make everyone feel comfortable attending these lectures because we have such a diverse downtown population. It really puts critical issues under the microscope for all of us and broadens our knowledge of what's happening in the world."
	Joan Hensler Former City Councilperson and St. Mary's Parishioner
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Programs

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About DCF Programs

The Downtown Community Forum attracts several thousand attendees each year to programs covering a diverse range of topics from affordable housing to religion to urban sprawl. We cover issues that often fall through the cracks, or that are being addressed by a number of groups that are focused on only a small part of the issue.

By providing a wider perspective and insight into the larger issues, DCF has helped to bring the community together, build coalitions, and expose people to national, regional and local speakers with wide experience and a contemporary worldview. More importantly, these programs have promoted respectful listening to differing points of view during what is inevitably a lively and informative discussion following each program.

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Programs of the Downtown Community Forum

Noontime Lecture Series
The Noontime Lecture series was the Downtown Community Forum's first program and it remains a cornerstone of our program offerings. These lectures are always topical, usally thought-provoking, and sometimes even a bit controversial. We invite citizens at large and city businesspeople to literally break bread together as they expose themselves to a wide range of subjects, including affordable housing, healthcare for children, global environmental issues, healing the body and spirit, and the impact of healthcare reform.

Surviving the Holidays after a Loss
Even in the best of times, the holidays present a challenge. For those who are mourning any loss, it is especially hard. Decorations are seemingly everywhere, and people rush around with a sense of purpose that is alien to those who are suffering. It's hard not to be upset or even angry at being surrounded by celebration when one is consumed by grief and a profound sense of loss. Every December, DCF offers a program that provides support to those seeking coping skills.

The E. Garrett Cleary Lecture on Ethics and Values
E. Garrett Cleary (1928-1996) was a prominent Rochester attorney, civic leader, husband and father. His own commitment to life shaped by ethical convictions inspired his family to create this annual lecture series, in which speakers offer fresh insight into contemporary ethical issues in order to stir public dialogue and encourage the public to deepen the very values that enhance life.

Life After Five
This program is designed to offer the downtown community a place to mingle with other businesspeople while enjoying wine, cheese and other munchies - and outstanding programs on current issues.

Check out our upcoming events!

You can also find information on past events in our Events Archive.

Feel free to use our online contact form to request any additional information.

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