In difficult economic times, community leaders struggle with a lack of funding to improve or even sustain their communities. Funding sources for special projects are scarce, and even institutions such as school districts, municipalities, and agencies struggle with reduced budgets at the same time that they are experiencing increased need. As difficult as it seems, dire circumstances can offer opportunity. Without the comfort of economic security, communities now seem more willing to consider changes that they would have previously dismissed as too risky, too unconventional, or too difficult. One of the strategies now pursued by communities across Illinois is that of developing existing assets. If a community values an asset, it is worth developing. Sometimes, this development must occur with resources other than dollars. Communities are engaging in assessment processes that allow them to identify and then invest in the assets that they value. Even in this age of uncertainty, many community residents are optimistic about the future and have high expectations for their ability to shape it.
Where do communities begin in the process of developing their assets? For most communities, the process begins with an assessment of what has value, what community residents can contribute (time, networks, ideas, etc.) and which projects should be started first. Community members begin by understanding the assets of the community, imagining and planning the changes they wish to see in the future, and then building partnerships and developing the resources for change at all levels of the community -- as individuals, within organizations, and across the community. According to Bliss Browne of Imagine Chicago, "people are both pushed into the future by events outside our control and pulled into the future by what inspires and motivates us." The challenge for community leaders is to harness the energy and ideas of community residents, enabling them to work together toward shared goals and objectives, even when they perceive themselves as very different from one another.
When people work together across their differences, they are more likely to develop new and creative ideas, and the likelihood of innovation increases. But many people live, some by choice, in segregated communities or within traditional roles, with a resulting loss of imagination and connection to others. Productive partnerships can be difficult among people who believe in stereotypes of one another or among professionals who have been trained to think of themselves as experts with answers rather than as community partners with questions. What raises confidence that partnerships are worth the discomfort of learning to work with someone very different from oneself, that a greater good can be accomplished than we can accomplish on our own?
Browne suggests that community residents set aside time, very purposely, to talk together about what is of most value, inquiring about the core mission, strengths and purpose of the community or organization. Talking and listening builds respect and invites collaboration. Partnerships with integrity enable participating organizations to accomplish their respective missions more effectively than they could otherwise achieve on their own. Effective community partnerships require such a need and openness, a humility that no one has all the answers and that we can benefit from learning together. In effective partnerships, community residents can begin to turn their ideas into action for the good of the community.
To learn more about turning ideas into action in your community or your organization, attend the 12th Annual Illinois Leadership Conference at Jumer\'s Chateau Hotel in Bloomington, on June 9. The conference will feature several nationally known speakers, including Bliss Browne, who founded Imagine Chicago and has worked around the globe to help community members develop and implement innovative civic projects; Tim Miles, who will give the keynote luncheon talk entitled, “Managing Change from the Inside Out;" and Connie Pirtle, nationally known for her work in managing volunteers. In addition to exploring the ideas-into-action theme, conference topics include recognizing and managing generational differences, enhancing your local library\'s community connections, developing and managing a volunteer base, and alternative energy options in Illinois. This year, the conference features dozens of learning stations which will provide opportunities for participants to explore successful strategies and effective programs for community and organizational improvement. Cost of the conference is $75, and includes refreshment breaks, lunch, and all materials. Scholarships and CEUs are available. Participation is limited, so register early at www.communitydevelopment.uiuc.edu. For more information, contact Anne Heinze Silvis, University of Illinois Extension, at asilvis@illinois.edu
