Project 20/20 enters action phase of community work

First there was a recognition that despite efforts to make Battle Creek a better place something wasn't quite working.

Then a leading national authority on improving America's communities was invited to town. Rich Harwood explained it would take strong "public capital" to bring about lasting change. He said public capital is the trust in and support for community change that results from strong connections among individuals and groups across the community.

He informed those trying to bring about change that among the things a community needs is strong, diverse leadership that extends to all layers of a community. These leaders understand the concerns of the community as a whole and serves as connects individuals and organizations throughout the community.

Forums and meetings of leaders followed with the goal of having people "get on the same page."

Now comes time for evaluation of what has occurred so far with the anticipation of moving levers needed to map out a plan for Project 20/20 over the next three years, moving into a phase they call moving the levers. Identifying resources and where those resources can be pushed to make changes come about are part of the process, says Amanda Lankerd, of Project 20/20.

The planning session will be 7:30 to 10 a.m. Monday, June 20, at Burnham Brook Community Center.

Carla Dearing, who helped launch Project 20/20, will facilitate the process of building a plan to help us achieve the outcomes we need and want for our community. Dearing is the assistant vice president, strategic initiatives, University of Louisville, Office of Health Affairs, on the Health Sciences Campus.

Project 20/20, is a coalition of community members dedicated to finding ways to encourage people to choose to live, work and invest in the Battle Creek area.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Amanda Lankerd, Project 20/20