Central Lakes College presents ConnectEffect

Central Lakes College announces the return of ConnectEffect, an innovative and interactive experience designed to bridge social gaps and foster meaningful connections within our community. The series of events will take place from Sept. 23-27 across various locations in Brainerd and Staples.

Hosted by two-time Emmy-nominated television director/producer Riaz Patel, ConnectEffect offers participants a unique opportunity to engage in dynamic conversations and activities that break down social barriers and promote empathy across generations and cultures.

Event Schedule:

Monday, Sept. 23

Afternoon Session:

Time: 12 p.m.

Location: Central Lakes College Brainerd Campus– 501 West College Drive, Brainerd

Evening Session:

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Sourcewell — 202 12th Street NE, Staples

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Afternoon Session:

Time: 12 p.m.

Location: Central Lakes College Staples Campus — 1830 Airport Road, Staples

Evening Session:

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Sourcewell — 202 12th Street NE, Staples

Wednesday, Sept. 25

Evening Session:

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Brainerd High School — 702 S 5th Street, Brainerd

Friday, Sept. 27

Afternoon Session:

Time: 12 p.m.

Location: Central Lakes College Brainerd Campus — 501 West College Drive, Brainerd

Evening Session:

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Brainerd High School — 702 S 5th Street, Brainerd

ConnectEffect blends elements of talk shows and live theater to create an engaging atmosphere where participants can explore the contrasts between the “Real World” and the “Screen World.” Through guided exercises and conversations, attendees connect with new people in a fun, relaxed setting, leaving with a renewed sense of community and understanding.

In an age when digital interactions often replace genuine human connection, ConnectEffect is an immersive and dynamic experience that connects any group of people — even complete strangers — in a deeply meaningful way that reignites a sense of hope and belonging. Data collected in consultation with Essentia Health shows that 93% feel more able to connect to others, 96% more able to bridge divides and 97% of emerge more hopeful — in just under an hour. The magazine Forbes called it a “game-changer” for the epidemic of isolation & alienation.

Riaz Patel, known for his compelling storytelling and ability to connect diverse audiences, brings his expertise back to Central Lakes College after a successful inaugural event earlier this year. Participants from the January session described the experience as transformative and uplifting, highlighting its impact on reducing feelings of isolation and fostering genuine human connections.

“We are thrilled to bring ConnectEffect back to our community,” said Joey Yow, Director of the CLC Performing Arts Center. “The positive feedback from our previous event has inspired us to expand and reach even more people. We believe these sessions will continue to build stronger, more empathetic connections among residents of all ages and backgrounds.”

Following the Sept. 23-27 event, ConnectEffect will launch a three-month engagement of Chatty Hour, a weekly drop-in opportunity held in Brainerd and Staples that is designed to foster meaningful conversations and strengthen community bonds. Chatty Hour will provide a relaxed, welcoming space where participants can engage in open discussions, share stories, and build connections with others in the community.