Question:
I am an architect doing community engagement work for schools in low socio-economic neighborhoods. Typically community members have been asked to show up and participate at meetings. Recently we became aware of "community fellows" programs for organizers and possible compensation for all attendees. I am looking for resources to help provide just and fair compensation to community participants in our public workshops. Thank you
Answer:
Providing compensation for community participants is a great idea. I'm not exactly sure what the workshops entail, but you may be able to find grants through a local community foundation or other foundations focused on equity, empowerment, and community organizing. Would it be possible to expand the workshops to include leadership training or training in community organizing, so that community members come away with their involvement with meaningful skills that they can use in the future to improve their communities? That might be a way to attract funding to the work you are doing. Good luck.
Gabe Kuperminc
Question Date: Tue, 03/30/2021