Fears, Facts, and Fiction: Mastering the NIMBY Moment

An Overview

A grounded, practical session for non-profits, local governments, and community advocates who find themselves facing public resistance to projects designed to help. 

When a needed initiative becomes framed as a threat instead of a benefit, the path forward can feel impossible. This session breaks down proven, real‑world approaches for reducing fear, building trust, and shifting the narrative. 

Participants will leave with actionable tools they can apply immediately – whether they’re launching housing, social services, infrastructure, or community‑building projects.

Who should attend:

Non-profits, local governments, community groups, advocacy organizations, and anyone responsible for public engagement, project rollout, or community-facing communications.

Presenter:

Shane Mills

With nearly four decades of experience across journalism, provincial politics – including six years in the Office of the Premier – and municipal government, Shane has witnessed projects soar and stumble in equal measure. Those hard-earned lessons now fuel his work helping organizations navigate public resistance, build trust, and communicate with clarity. Drawing on a career spent at the intersection of storytelling, policy, and community, he equips leaders with the strategies they need to turn challenging conversations into lasting success.