Community Conversation in North Conway, New Hampshire

Join the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) and New Hampshire Humanities (NHH) for a dynamic conversation about the evolving role of community and what it means for North Conway, taking place at the Gibson Center for Senior Services. This is an opportunity to connect with neighbors, share your experiences, and explore project ideas for a stronger, more resilient community.

This event is free & open to the public. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. Help ensure we have enough room, so tell us you are coming!

• Interactive Conversations: Join facilitated discussions designed to include all voices and explore complex ideas together.
• Interesting People: Connect with others who are curious about community and want to get to know you.
• Connections & Civic Engagement: Share perspectives, strengthen community ties, and contribute ideas about a community-building experience.
• Creative Reflection: Artist Marek Bennett will use his signature style to record the main themes of each conversation.

Damian Costello: Damian Costello received his Ph.D. in theological studies from the University of Dayton and specializes in the intersection of Catholic theology, Indigenous spiritual traditions, and colonial history. He is an international expert on the life and legacy of Nicholas Black Elk and the author of Black Elk: Colonialism and Lakota Catholicism. Costello was born and raised in Vermont and his work is informed by many years of ethnographic work on the Navajo Nation. Costello serves as the director of postgraduate studies at NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community, an Indigenous-designed and delivered ATS-accredited graduate school.

Cindy Pulkkinen: Cindy Pulkkinen has been in the teaching world since 1985 and is honored to be a New Hampshire Humanities Connections facilitator. She loves books, languages, traveling, and learning from others. Connecting with students and opening a space for all to share is her number one goal. Cindy currently lives in Lincoln.

Preview the key topics that will be explored during the event. Your insights about these themes will be essential to keep the conversation flowing.

• Community
• Change
• Resilience
• Place
• Identity
• Belonging

For decades, the Gibson Center for Senior Services has been a lifeline for older adults in Northern Carroll County, providing essential services that help seniors remain in their homes while maintaining independence and quality of life. From home-delivered and congregate meals to transportation, social, and educational programs, the center is a hub of connection and support for the region’s aging population.

With support from CDFA’s Community Center Investment Program, the Gibson Center for Senior Services is undergoing renovations to improve energy efficiency, enhance air quality, and preserve the character of its historic building. The replacement of outdated windows will not only reduce operational costs but also create a healthier, more comfortable space for seniors to gather, learn, stay active, and connect.

These improvements will ensure that the center can continue to serve the community through its Meals on Wheels program, transportation services, and evolving wellness initiatives. By modernizing its facilities while maintaining its historic charm, the Gibson Center for Senior Services is reaffirming its commitment to helping seniors age with dignity, connection, and support.

The Gibson Center for Senior Services has already received grant funding to bring ideas from the discussion to life. By attending this event, you will help shape community-led projects launching later this year.

Host or Publisher New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority