It's Improv Launches Corporate Training Program in San Diego

San Diego businesses, government organizations, nonprofits, and higher education institutions can now enhance their teams' skills while supporting the community through the new "Improv to Impact" corporate training program. The initiative was launched on Monday by San Diego-based nonprofit It's Improv.

The program utilizes applied improvisation to teach employees skills that help them navigate uncertainty in a rapidly changing environment. These skills include improved internal communication, adaptability to change, and creative problem-solving. Crucially, each paid "Improv to Impact" workshop funds ten free improvisation classes for San Diego residents experiencing homelessness, low socioeconomic status, or belonging to other historically underserved communities. These classes aim to strengthen mental and physical health and build resilience.

"We know that human beings thrive on connection, and that is really what learning improv provides for everyone," said Jean Diedrich, COO and co-founder of It's Improv. "Research has proven that play, which improv allows us to do in a safe space, helps our brains create stronger connections with others, feel braver, and think more creatively about our problems. With 'Improv to Impact,' businesses can provide professional development for their employees while giving the gift of improv's science-backed benefits to their community."

The program offers a variety of pre-designed workshops, including "Adaptive Leadership & Agility Through Change," "Building High Trust Teams," "Communication Under Pressure," and "Innovation & Creative Problem Solving." It's Improv also provides customized workshops to address specific company challenges. The program has already been piloted with several organizations in the San Diego area, including MiraCosta College and San Diego State University. Two-hour workshops for up to eight people start at $1,250.