Reflections on the Power of Community
NationSwell
An award-winning executive membership community and advisory for social impact, sustainability, and philanthropy leaders
Recently, members of the NationSwell gathered at Guttman Community College CUNY for an in-person salon to explore community as a foundation for shared purpose, empathy, and mutual support. We shared our personal stories and reflected on how community has shaped our own lives and leadership.
Our sincere appreciation goes to:
Our distinguished panelists who set the stage for our dialogue:
The conversation was warm, inviting, and generative, and sparked a flurry of great ideas and new chances for collaboration. Below are just a few key highlights from the discussion:
Community Involvement and Collective Action
Effective community development relies on the active participation of individuals who are invested in their local area. These community members play a crucial role in identifying and addressing issues that affect their neighborhoods. The collective effort of residents is essential for creating sustainable solutions, as their proximity to the problems allows for a nuanced understanding of local challenges.
Bridging Generational Gaps
Even in relatively homogeneous communities, a diversity of generations exists, each with its own perspectives and experiences. This generational diversity can lead to conflicts, particularly when young people with innovative ideas clash with older generations who may be more resistant to change.
Youth Engagement and Empowerment
Engaging and empowering youth is crucial for the long-term sustainability of community development efforts. Key issues that concern young people include:
Digital Landscape and Education
Today's youth are digital natives, primarily using mobile devices for online activities. However, this familiarity with mobile technology does not necessarily translate to proficiency in computer skills required for higher education and professional environments. Additionally, young people may be more susceptible to online fraud compared to older generations.
Education and Skill Development
The rapid pace of change in today's world has created learning gaps that are challenging to address adequately. To strengthen community institutions and prepare youth for future success:
Leadership Development and Empowerment
Creating strong leadership pipelines is essential for the long-term success of community development initiatives. This process should begin early, ideally in junior high school, to build people capital and prepare the next generation for leadership roles.
For more takeaways from select NationSwell events, visit nationswell.com/stories