By Elizabeth Maker

There’s a gem of a resource in the quiet corner of northwest Connecticut that not many know of, even though its philanthropic work has helped important causes locally and globally for nearly two decades. As often as ten times a year, The Salisbury Forum presents free public programs at one of three area schools: Hotchkiss, Salisbury, or Housatonic Valley Regional High, hosting notable speakers with connections to Litchfield, Berkshire, and Dutchess Counties.

In a format redolent of NPR’s “Conversations on the Green,” the nonprofit forum features actors, writers, diplomats, comedians, and others, sharing topics from environmental protection and national security to affordable housing and addiction. The audience is invited to a Q&A with speakers post-presentation. The Forum also periodically presents compelling documentaries at the Moviehouse in Millerton.

“We’re grateful to have this rich offering here, where people and ideas connect,” says Forum President Pat Jenny. “We get a deeper understanding of issues, and might even be prompted into action.”

Salisbury resident Franck DeChambeau, an Episcopal priest, started the forum in 2005, hosting journalists Sander Vanocur and Dan Rather. “Looking ahead to the next 20 years, we’d like to attract a younger audience as well,” says Jenny, adding that rapidly evolving topics, such as artificial intelligence, financial investing, and social media are among forum topics for late summer and fall. Visit salisburyforum.org to watch past speakers and see upcoming programs.