FREE SEMINARS HELP RESIDENTS LEARN HOW TO START AND LEAD GROUPS TO STRENGTHEN NEIGHBORHOODS

• When: 10 am and 7 pm Thursday, December 28
• Where: LINC UP – The Gallery (341 Hall SE)
• The event promotes a kid friendly environment. Hosts will serve light snacks and refreshments.

The “Starting a Neighborhood Association 101” 90-minute seminar (held at 10 a.m. and again at 7 p.m.) will define a neighborhood association and its core functions. It will help residents determine if a neighborhood association already exists in their area. It will also provide an outline of recommended steps to forming an association or group, as well as estimated cost if the association seeks formal non-profit IRS designation.

The City of Grand Rapids is taking steps to drive greater interest in neighborhood engagement. It is now inviting residents to attend a series of Grand Rapids Neighborhood Seminars on Thursday, Dec. 28 to learn about the benefits and ways to organize at the block and neighborhood level. Residents can now register for the free sessions by clicking here. LINC UP – The Gallery (341 Hall Street SE, Grand Rapids) will host the morning and afternoon sessions.

According to Jordoun Eatman, lead neighborhood connector, the Neighborhood Seminars are a result of a collaborative partnership among the City, Seeds of Promise and LINC UP. The groups’ goal is to increase voice and opportunities within Grand Rapids neighborhoods.

“Participants will learn about the importance of having neighborhood associations in their community. We will also teach strategies to form, lead and sustain block clubs,” he said.

The “Block Clubs 101” hour-long seminar (held at 9 a.m. and again at 6 p.m.) will focus on the benefits of having an active block club. It will detail recommended steps to start and maintain one. It will also identify optional tools, templates and forms necessary to begin the process.