Would you like to start or improve an organization in your neighborhood or community? There is information on how to do just that in a workbook and other resources provided by the Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center.
The workbook covers 10 topics that organizers likely will encounter in their quest to create positive change in their neighborhoods.
The first is to focus on the pros of the neighborhood instead of the cons. Every neighborhood has assets, the group emphasizes. Highlighting the assets can encourage other residents to join.
Other topics tackle community organizing, leadership, group dynamics, neighborhood meetings, collaboration and more. There also are real-life examples of the successes achieved by other Indianapolis neighborhood organizations.
Sharon Logan, the center’s neighborhood services director, said the book is just one part of what is available to residents who are interested in organizing.
“There is the Indianapolis Community Building Institute that we do every fall,” Logan said. “Folks can apply to join and they have to have at least two other neighbors commit to come with them.”
The time commitment is a series of five workshops that occur every other week, Logan said.
A second resource is Public Allies Indianapolis, which is a full-time, 10-month apprenticeship that is part of AmeriCorps.
Those 17 and older with a high school diploma or GED can apply, according to the Public Allies website. Selected candidates are placed with a nonprofit, which serves the community in one of 25 locations, including Indianapolis.
The Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center also provides technical assistance and training to community organizers. The assistance provided depends on the needs of the organization, Logan said, but can include coaching and facilitating meetings.
Anyone with questions can call the Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center at 317-920-0330 or visit the website.
Diane Moore covers the east side of Indianapolis. Contact her at diane.moore@mirrorindy.org. Follow her on X @DianeMoore80711.
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