Engaging the wider community

[Jules Cousins]

We have so much going on over here in Canterbury, but a great deal seems to be "in the background". At our general meetings, the Steering Group relates news and organises interesting talks, but we have yet to find a way to engage the wider community - to give them a task that makes them feel involved. Can I ask the regional group which of their initiatives have been the most successful in capturing the imagination of their wider community?

Jules.

[caroline moore]

This is such an interesting topic. I feel like the Hastings initiave is looking at the same questions at the moment. So, unfortunately I can't pass on any gems of experience! But we have been discussing ideas to do with the creative side of things: drama, performance and parties - to bring a sense of fun and celebration. Not sure if that will help people to feel 'involved' but hoping it may encourage them to want to consider being involved...

I'll keep a check on this discussion and let's see what unfolds!

Best wishes,
Caroline

[Richard Molyneux]

Showing a film is a good start - especially if entry is FREE! The Green Mole Forum was started in January 2008 by a group of people who'd seen Al Gore's 'An Inconvenient Truth' locally and felt that SOMETHING had to be done. From them sprang forth two Transition groups with more on the way, a website, email forum, talks, stalls at local events and a collaboration with the local District Council to loan out home energy monitors...

The other thing to get people involved, if you have a patch of land that could be turned to useful work is a Permablitz...

Hope this helps

Richard