With a vision for the future in hand and “Future Squads” (contextual teams) on the move, some community members have been asking, “are we still addressing poverty?” I love this question. By posing this question, you are demonstrating that knowledge and awareness has been raised over the past year, and more importantly, that you want to do something about it.
As many of you have pointed out, your understanding of the different aspects of poverty is underlying your vision statements. However, many of you have asked: “Is this enough?” Here are some questions and thoughts to remember as your community progresses:
Who is participating in the Future Squads?
- During Study Circles and LeadershipPlenty, we had a wide demographic representation of the community. Is this true today? Are youth involved? People in poverty? Current leaders of traditional institutions and organizations?
Are our actions addressing poverty?
- When developing your action plans, think about whether the action directly or indirectly addresses poverty in your community. If the impact is indirect , how can this correlation be strengthened?
Are our meetings publicized in a welcoming manner and have we been inclusive?
- Studies show that people are four times more likely to participate when personally asked. What efforts are being made to personally invite community members who are typically not involved? I know many of you are tapped from all ends, this is even more reason to welcome new leadership and work toward broad participation. Wouldn’t it be great if at the next meeting more than just the “same ten people” were there? It takes more time, but I think you’ll find that your efforts are well worth it.
- Remember that it is sometimes easier to get people involved for the first time if they are asked to help with a specific task. At each step of the way, ask : “How can we bring others in?”
Are we working toward strengthening the “Ten Attributes of Successful Communities?”
- Challenges with transitioning to new leadership and with inclusion came up in every community during the vision sessions. How can your Future Squads model this?
Let people know about the Barrier Elimination Funds.
- Each community has funds to reduce the barriers to participation. Let people who may not come otherwise know about the childcare and transportation stipends so that money is not a factor impeding involvement. Contact your local organizer or community coordinator to find out more.
Participants in Horizons study circles developed this framework to help connect future squad actions and common approaches to poverty reduction: Poverty Resources.
How is your community remaining focused on poverty and engaging often marginalized populations? Add a comment!
