Community Engagement

6 articles

Editorial illustration for How Local Parks Get Planned and Funded: A Stage-by-Stage Guide for Residents
Outdoors & Rec

How Local Parks Get Planned and Funded: A Stage-by-Stage Guide for Residents

Local parks develop through a multi-stage lifecycle involving site assessment, community design, construction, and maintenance, each with unique funding and participation opportunities. Understanding this process empowers residents to influence park projects from initial visioning to funding decisions.

Amélie Dubois·October 31, 2026
Editorial illustration for How Artisan Markets Pay Off Twice: Once for Makers, Once for the Community
Local Makers

How Artisan Markets Pay Off Twice: Once for Makers, Once for the Community

Artisan markets provide a dual dividend: direct income and customer feedback for makers, alongside local economic circulation and cultural heritage preservation for communities.

Katerina Orlova·October 26, 2026
Editorial illustration for What a General Plan Is, and How Watsonville Is Building Its 2050 Vision
Neighborhood Guides

What a General Plan Is, and How Watsonville Is Building Its 2050 Vision

A General Plan is a state-mandated document guiding a California city's long-term growth and development. Watsonville's General Plan 2050 serves as a case study, detailing its community engagement process and the timeline for public participation.

Amélie Dubois·October 25, 2026
Editorial illustration for How to Curate a Local Art Exhibition: A Three-Phase Checklist From Concept to Wrap-Up
Arts & Culture

How to Curate a Local Art Exhibition: A Three-Phase Checklist From Concept to Wrap-Up

This guide details a structured, three-phase process for curating local art exhibitions, covering pre-exhibition planning, the exhibition period, and post-exhibition wrap-up. It emphasizes practical logistics and community engagement for a successful show.

Katerina Orlova·October 23, 2026
Editorial illustration for Preserving Local Heritage: How Historical Societies Archive Stories and How You Can Contribute
Neighborhood Guides

Preserving Local Heritage: How Historical Societies Archive Stories and How You Can Contribute

Local historical societies are crucial for preserving community heritage by archiving stories and artifacts. Individuals can contribute by donating materials or volunteering their time and skills to safeguard local legacies.

Amélie Dubois·September 29, 2026
Diverse community members actively engaged in sustainable projects within a well-equipped Maryland makerspace, highlighting collaboration and innovation.
Local Makers

Maryland's Makerspaces Spark Sustainable Community Engagement Beyond Tools

Maryland launched its Makerspace Initiative Program in 2022, becoming the first state to pass legislation specifically funding a public network of makerspaces.

Katerina Orlova·September 6, 2026