What We Did in June - Community Animator Network

Congratulations to our 7th cohort of Community Animators! Maria Garduño, Tasha Eley Kelly, and Selena Favela completed their 12-week program, during which they worked to discover, connect, and activate their neighborhoods! At our final gathering with them, they presented their Asset Maps, highlighting the skills, gifts, talents, and stories they discovered in their communities.

Maria shared stories about the connections she made in her neighborhood. Moms are hosting outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Regularly they get together for story time with their children too. After hearing of interest in learning Spanish, Maria offered to begin a story-telling session where the kids enjoy stories in Spanish and English. We’re proud of Maria for sharing her gift and sharing her spark with others!

Maria presenting her neighborhood Asset Map

Between presentations, we enjoyed tacos from nearby Las Cazuelas Mexican Restaurant. The carne asada & al pastor tacos are always a delight! So good, your neighborhood superhero might just stop by to give it a try!

After dinner, the group enjoyed playing a round of Social Capital Jenga. Catherine explained the neighborhood foundation composed of neighborhood safety, trust, economic development, environment, and personal health.

Laughter and smiles were still shared as we played and learned about real experiences that have been impacting our communities.

“A new grocery store opens in a neighborhood that is a food desert. Do not remove a block!”

- Tasha

We heard from Tasha how the stories of other Black people led her to feeling uneasy at the idea of approaching doors in her neighborhood. This didn’t stop her from getting out and meeting her community, though! Tasha shared about uncovering the local history by visiting her library and city hall. She found out her city once had a community pool - something she felt would be great to bring back for all to enjoy!
Selena’s presentation shared actions of care. Much like when she offered food from her garden to a neighbor, which sparked neighbors to start their own garden too!

Selena Favela, Maria Garduño, Catherine Johnson, Elizabeth Ramirez, & Tasha Eley Kelly

(Pictured from left to right)

It’s so important to get connected and neighboring is a fun and easy way to get started. Elizabeth observed the close relationships that were developed and the impact that Tasha, Selena, and Maria had on their neighborhoods. We believe in the ABCD method and our animators are proof that it works! We are accepting applications for the fall Community Animator cohort. If you’re ready to activate your community, get connected to your neighbors, and discover their assets start your application now.

More highlights from our community builders!

• Karen hosted the Cruize In & the Third Monday Potluck at Lincoln Park as well as influenced the City of Wichita to turn on the Splash Pad for summer after two years without use!

• Clarissa (Liberal, KS) has been applying for grants & working to acquire funding for the Cinco De Mayo Parade, Festival, and Pageant happening in September!

• Emily’s Somos First-Gen was nominated for the Immigrant Service Award at the Immigrant Heritage Celebration and preparing for their School Supply Giveaway & Clothing Swap on July 29th!

• Les (Florence, KS) has successfully located an Executive Director to run their Childcare Center starting in August!

• Arionna is hosting meetings with team members in preparation for their collaborative event with ICT Food Rescue on July 31st!