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Question: Hello,

I'm conducting some research for Building Resilient Neighbourhoods. BRN (http://resilientneighbourhoods.ca/) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building resilient neighbourhoods in Victoria BC. We are conducting an update and revision of our Resilient Streets Toolkit (http://resilientneighbourhoods.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/RN_Toolkit_15_02_web.pdf ). The Toolkit includes “Inspiring Examples” from Canada and around the world of small groups of immediate neighbours collaborating in projects and activities on their street or in their buildings to help build resilience in their lives, homes, streets and neighbourhoods.

We’re having difficulty finding examples of things that neighbours can do to make sure that their block or building is friendly and inclusive for people of different cultures and races, people who have a disability, or who identify as part of the LGBTQ community. I’ve taken a look through your website and see that you have some incredible resources about how to build inclusive communities. I’m wondering if you know any initiatives undertaken by neighbours to create inclusivity at the street level. What we’re after here are examples that feel attainable for individuals working with a small group of their immediate neighbours. We’re especially looking for examples that include how-to guides, or that give a step-by-step explanation of how an initiative took shape. Examples might be reading groups, discussion groups, building parties to create accessible infrastructure, inclusive neighbourhood dinners or potlucks, instances where members or advocates of a minority group reached out to their neighbours to educate and/or connect with them, or anything else you think might qualify.

Anything you could offer would be greatly appreciated, including contacts for other organizations you think might be helpful.

Thank you so much!








Answer:

Hello Kelly,

The Community Toolbox provides a Database of Best Practices and you might start there if you have not already explored it. Another good resource might be to look at web sites for professional associations related to such topics. The Society for Community Research and Action (www.scra27.org) is one. Send an inquiry to the listservs of such organizations or review the literature and contact the authors.Google searches for the various groups affected by inclusive communities might also yield examples, especially if you contact the advocacy groups for each of these issues.

I hope this is helpful.

Sincerely,

The Community Tool Box Advisor

Question Date: Thu, 02/02/2017