Neighbourhood Power! Jim Diers, renowned community development expert coming to Burlington Oct. 24

The City of Burlington is inviting residents to attend a presentation on Oct. 24, 2023, from Jim Diers and become inspired to develop a grassroots neighbourhood strategy to build stronger communities. The event will be held at the Burlington Seniors’ Centre (2285 New St.) from 6 to 8 p.m. The event is free. Registration is not needed.

Jim Diers is a renowned and internationally acclaimed expert on building engaged, connected and caring communities.

This is Jim's third visit to the City. He has inspired residents over the years and helped inspire and launch the Love My Neighbourhood Program, Community Rink Program and Community Matching Fund Program. We are excited to bring Jim back to see what other things the community might want to do.

Presentation Overview

Jim Diers’ presentation will be about Neighbour Power. Neighbour Power not only gives hope that participatory democracy (where individuals participate directly in political decisions and policies rather than through an elected official) is possible, but it offers real-life examples and invaluable lessons for neighbours who want to make a difference. The presentation also provides inspiring stories and proven programs to help cities embrace neighbourhood activists as true partners.

About Jim Diers

Jim Diers has a passion for getting people engaged with their communities and in the decisions that affect their lives. Since moving to Seattle in 1976, he put that passion to work for a direct-action neighborhood association, a community development corporation, a community foundation, and the nation's largest health care cooperative. He was appointed the first director of Seattle's Department of Neighborhoods in 1988 where he served under three mayors over the next 14 years.

Currently, Jim teaches courses in community organizing and development at the University of Washington and serves on the faculty of the Asset-Based Community Development Institute. He travels internationally to deliver speeches, present workshops, and provide technical assistance to community associations, non-profit organizations, and government.

Jim received a BA and an honorary doctorate from Grinnell College. His work in the Department of Neighborhoods was recognized with an Innovations Award from the Kennedy School of Government, a Full Inclusion Award from the American Association on Developmental Disabilities, and the Public Employee of the Year Award from the Municipal League of King County. Jim's book, Neighbor Power: Building Community the Seattle Way, is available in both English and Chinese editions.

Burlington is a city where people, nature and businesses thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at burlington.ca/subscribe and follow @CityBurlington on social media.

Quote

Denise Beard, Senior Manager, Community Development

“This inspiring presentation will highlight how important community champions are to turn a neighbourhood into a truly connected community and the power of a neighbourhood. Burlington has many passionate people who care. We’re always looking for those who are ready and prepared to take action to make their neighbourhood into something special for everyone.”

Links and Resources

Jim Diers' website -www.neighborpower.org/about.html

Love My Neighbourhood Program – www.burlington.ca/neighbourhood

Community Rink Program – www.burlington.ca/neighbourhoodrink

Community Matching Fund Program – www.burlington.ca/matchingfund

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