My idea is to coordinate a series of events that will introduce groups from one city to another so that they can connect with residents, learn about community assets and understand the challenges and successes of another city. Then they will swap and the first city will host an experience for the second.
Michigan is made of up of numerous cities but frequently people only know the area that is part of their everyday experience. There are so many positive things happening in Michigan right now but unfortunately those people, places and projects don’t get the attention they deserve especially in different parts of the state. By introducing people from one area to the assets of another area they can see that there are positive things happening that they can take advantage of and they can learn about the possibilities in their own city.
Impact
It will advance engagement and opportunity by highlighting community engagement success stories and giving residents the knowledge, resources and connections to help them implement similar projects in their own city. It will also advance talent by increasing the level of attachment and pride in the community.
What I Will Do With $5,000
The grant would be used to cover the costs of a pilot Mi City Swap including transportation, meeting places, and planning costs. The pilot would include Detroit and Grand Rapids as swap cities. During the swap days groups will: Discover assets like small businesses, public spaces & community services that they didn’t know existed. Learn about successful projects that could be recreated in their own neighborhood. Build relationships by helping participants recognize commonalities with new people.
