BE THE CHANGE
I love the community conversations we get to have in our work. Hearing different perspectives and vantage points help contribute community-based solutions that can work. People are not always as polarized on social issues as the media suggests. When we get people talking about real, boots-on-the-ground solutions, I'm pleasantly surprised by the willingness most people have to be part of the solution regardless of which side of the political aisle they are on. Here are some common threads I'm hearing:
☑ People need opportunity to upskill. Getting education, credentialing, certificates, or gaining new skills provide opportunity for people to increase employability, increase income and live more contented lives. This is good for the individual, the family and the community.
☑ Work is good for people. As they are able, people need to contribute to their own economies and sense of well-being. In addition to their bank account, it is good for their soul, their identity and sense of self.
☑Creating systems where everyone can thrive is our collective responsibility. We have some work to do to ensure everyone can thrive where they live. Systems such as schools, business, local government, and nonprofits all have a part to play in contributing to a community where people are set up for success. Strengthen the systems, strengthen the community.
☑ The paradigm wasn't created in a day and neither will the solution be. We need viable strategies, advocacy and commitment to see solutions through to fruition. We are doing some things right, but we need to identify what needs to change, what needs to be added and how we move forward.
We can't always agree on solutions, but I'm encouraged that there is common ground on which we can build. What part can you play?
-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP
#nonprofitdevelopment #communityengagement #community
