Mark Deutschmann’s Post

So often we hear conversations about “density” and adding density. To me, the biggest challenge is applying these ideas to areas outside of urban cores. I sat next to a gentleman this weekend who made the point of “proximity” and how proximity is really the driver for blending this conversation between urban/suburb/rural. The “one-mile-radius” is a great example of this proximity and how ALL communities can think about proximity and how we crave it. That proximity will be different from the urban core vs Main Street USA, but it is important recognize that these proximities exist in all type of communities.

Tune into this insightful conversation with Dan Immergluck and Shawn Duncan 🎧

JULY 30TH - FREE MIDDLE NEIGHBORHOODS WEBINAR Block Makeovers as Catalysts for Change in Middle Neighborhoods July 30th, 1:30 - 3:00 pm eastern Register at https://lnkd.in/eV_x3Q6e Block makeovers – coordinated improvements to one block during a single, week-long event — can create powerful visual impact, build community, and trigger spinoff investment in similar projects throughout the neighborhood. Because the improvements are clustered, their individual impact is leveraged to create a ‘wow’ result, and with intentional strategy they can inspire others to:   - make DIY improvements with access to tool lending libraries as available;   - apply for bigger home repair and improvement loans and grants; - engage with neighbors to organize block cleanups and social events; and - learn new home maintenance skills, such as power washing, landscaping strategy and simple carpentry.   Successful block makeovers require thoughtful planning and coordination. Choosing the right block, soliciting the participation of property owners and residents, securing resources and volunteers, and managing the timeline of multiple projects are key to a smooth week. In this webinar, hear from three practitioners about their experience with block makeovers: why they do them, the results they’ve seen, and tips for event planning and execution.   Guest panelists: Amber Lynch, AICP, Executive Director, Invest DSM   Justin Tirsun, VP of Neighborhood Investment and Community Engagement, Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, Inc.   Amber Jones, Community Engagement Specialist, Community Action Partnership of North Alabama   Moderator: Marcia Nedland, Organizer Middle Neighborhoods Community of Practice

Have you heard of the Worcester Now | Next Plan? It's a long-range citywide planning process that is engaging the community on issues such as land use, housing, transportation, arts and culture, open space, and others. Watch this week's episode of The Buzz to learn more.

The true experts on housing insecurity? Those who've lived it. That's why we've launched LEAP - our Lived Experience Advisory Panel. By centering the voices of community members who've faced housing and food challenges, we're tapping into a wealth of knowledge and insight. The result? ✅ More effective programs ✅ Services that truly meet community needs ✅ Innovative solutions born from real experiences Learn more here: https://hubs.li/Q02RGCPr0

About Connected Communities and how to give input: https://lnkd.in/gkqhc8z5

Last semester, my project was born out of the question: what if neighborhood spaces were designed for connection? This topic has been on my mind recently because so many people say “your college years will be your best.” Yet I wondered how much of this was actually due to the college stage vs the livability of a campus where everything you need is a short walk away. With communities dominated by cars and the rise of urban sprawl, the average American is much more isolated than before. They have little-to-no community in the immediate vicinity and must drive everywhere to maintain social connection and community. I decided to tackle this isolation by reimagining a space many neighborhoods already have: the community center. Nbrhd Block is a product brand that reimagines community centers by providing adaptable alternatives tailored to the needs of the community. Neighbors can collaboratively build spaces by adding and customizing modules, ensuring the community center is a meaningful space to the entire neighborhood. By adding local public spaces, neighbors are essentially creating their own 15-minute city and establishing more community nearby (proven to have improvements for health and well-being).

ITP Consulting works at the human level and how we find joy, trust and sense of belonging in our community.

Let’s start a conversation! Last week, Allison Farole, MPA, CEM, MiPEM and I discussed the concept of building community preparedness. In this, we shared an observation that our current culture has shifted away from prioritizing and fostering a sense of “community.” Modern-day society coupled with technology advancements have shifted our mind-set. We are less connected to our neighbors, colleagues, schools, towns, city-centers, etc., than at any other time in history. And our long-standing viewpoint/sense of what “community” is, no longer exists. So, the QOTD is this: How do you build community preparedness, without community being a part of your culture?

Check out this awesome article from Mirror Indy on the 3rd edition of our Organizers Workbook focused on community organizing and creating sustainable and positive change in neighborhoods. Read here: https://zurl.co/9OBb