Neighboring in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Last weekend Elizabeth and I met with neighborhood association leaders, church leaders, non-profit staff and other good neighbors in Cedar Rapids to share about neighboring and Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD). After arriving 15 hours late due to some flight delays, we jumped in and began by learning about the gifts, skills, talents, and passions in the room. What an amazing group of people! One of the highlights of Friday was when two of the attendees, who are actually neighbors, met each other for the first time!

Using Curious Questions to learn more about gifts

On Saturday we explored asset mapping and the role of institutions in ABCD. I loved playing the We Can Game and feeling the energy in the room surge as people named things they not only CAN do, but also LOVE to do! I wonder what kind of amazing event or initiative could be born out of neighbors being invited to share those skills that they love!

Social Capital Jenga (Photo credit: Kristina Roth-Klinck)

There are good things happening in Cedar Rapids! When we travel and meet other people who believe in the importance of neighboring and of using an asset lens to view the world, it is inspiring to hear what they are already doing. We saw a non-profit creating economic development in a neighborhood previously destroyed by floods. We listened to residents of a manufactured home community describing the neighborliness in their community and the generous hospitality shared between neighbors there. We also heard stories of how neighbors came together to help each other after the August 2020 derecho (land hurricane) that damaged almost every single structure within the Cedar Rapids city limits.

Thank you to the Nourished community for your invitation and leadership, and for the hospitality of Matthew 25 and Groundswell Café!