Carolyn's Blog for ACE Communities

Closed, Closed, Closed

2010-09-28T14:06:00.005-06:00

Heading back home after a long weekend meant quite a few hours of travel. What a better way to pass the time but to chat and drive with a hot chocolate. Finding an independent, non-chain coffee shop open on a Monday statutory holiday was challenging. Two very touristy communities had no such shops open. The only place to buy a to-go drink were gas stations and Tim Horton's.

How does this reflect on rural development? I do believe people need days off, especially the independent, small shop owners. However, on the last "big" weekend of the summer when there is expected high traffic, having a closed sign is unwise. That closed sign gives the message that "your business is not important to me".

One part of rural development is about delivering services to local residents and often to tourists. In my case, as a tourist I was turned away and dissatisfied; how often are local people in small communities dissatisfied? When businesses fail to meet the needs of the local residents then people shop elsewhere. Sometimes these needs are longer business hours, an increase in the variety of goods or services, and being responsive to customers. It may be challenging or not make sense to stay open when few people come in, but sometimes it takes time to get the word out that a business is open longer. Local residents have an equal responsibility to meet the needs of the business owners. Residents need to frequent local services and businesses for business longevity.

Rural development in one of those areas that helps to increase quality of life for people. Businesses and services aide in helping people shop local, create employment, increase economic strength, and build community. Often the local diner is the "hub" of the community where people stop to chat over coffee and food. Sometimes even a local event will be held at the local diner. Starting a business in a rural community encourages people's talents and passions, and even their dreams.

Turn the sign over to "open" even when it may not make sense and welcome people in- there may be some surprises.

Friendly Competition

2010-08-31T15:07:00.005-06:00

Sometimes competition can spur people to take action in communities. Keeping the competition on a friendly basis ensures that there are no ill feeling and builds relationships between communities and regions. Sometimes the competition can be within a community or between similar organizations. Often these friendly competitions can help bring awareness to a cause or organization or even raise funds.

At other times, competition can get ugly. Recently, I heard of a community striving for the title of "most beautiful town in Canada". Apparently, one eastern town and one western town in Canada both claim the title and one town is pushing for the sole title. This possibly means legal action. The town who may have to remove the title would have to spend a lot of money to amend websites and print materials. Such a title is important to tourism and marketing strategies for a community. However, is such a title worth strife between two communities so far apart? Tourists will go where they want to visit and a town with a title of "most beautiful town in Canada" miles and miles apart is really in low competition of each other.

Tag lines play an important role in tourism. Tag lines to attract tourists and future residents are important to communities. Branding the community helps to build the community image and reflect community values. When that branding infringes upon another community then something needs to change. However, does it need to change to the point of potential legal implications? That strong competitive value would definitely stand out and send a message.

The answer may be to build on friendly competition where organizations or communities can build relationships and pool resources together, rather than repel each other.

If paradise is where we are, then paradise is everywhere. That means the most beautiful place to be is right where you are!

Nowhere... But Somewhere

2010-08-09T15:11:00.009-06:00

Have you ever driven down a rural road and wondered what people "do" because it seems so desolate? Have you ever commented that a community seemed to be in the middle of nowhere? My husband did that as we travelled through BC on our two week tenting trip. We travelled some of the secondary roads where communities were further apart and had few amenities. He wondered if we ever bought property in one of those more remote areas what his mother would do when she visited?!!

Sometimes I think it is about perspective when people comment about "living in the middle of nowhere". Every community is "somewhere" and most people live where they are because they think it is paradise. The perspective could be based on rural experiences or what people believe "somewhere" means to them. Another perspective could clearly be urban versus rural, but even with that perspective there are differences with urban, rural, and remote. Size, proximity, and amenities all contribute to those particular categories. Often those attributes affect funding to a community or individual in a number of ways. I have heard that sometimes when people in rural communities are asked about living rural, they say "this isn't rural- go to the next community- now that is rural!" It really is about perspective!

Perhaps living where some people would label as "nowhere" is about quality of life. What do people value about their quality of life? More and more I hear about people moving into rural communities, giving up their car, growing their food, volunteering in the community, getting away from the hustle and bustle, and seeking solitude. Maybe that is what living "nowhere" is all about; living in a place where you can set the pace yourself and surround yourself with nature and the things you love.

I know of one university professor who usually schedules two or three day meetings in a rural area where direct access to a local airport or buying an espresso is out of the question. She tells me that at first the city folk are in distress because the cell phone coverage is at best, limited, and people don't seem to know what to do with themselves. Finally, by the end of the day people are loosening up and relaxing. The talent of people begin to emerge with guitars and singing, or even a card game or two.

When I hear the comment "this is in the middle of nowhere" I now tend to reflect and wonder what the other person means by that. What gauge is being used to label a community as being in the middle of nowhere? How would someone describe their quality of life in their community relevant to another? Should two communities even be compared for quality of life? I think asking other people in where you live how they view the community in terms of quality of life would be an excellent process to go through. It would help people understand each other's perspective and look for opportunities for growth.

So, when you are driving down that remote, rural road and wondering why people live in the middle of "nowhere" remember, "nowhere is somewhere"... it is someone's paradise!

Garage Sales Unite

2010-06-29T14:35:00.003-06:00

My neighbourhood is in an older area where there is a mix of long term residents and more recently moved in people, like us. I decided to combine my love of garage sales and community together and started to plan a neighbourhood garage sale. There were wonderful unexpected outcomes and I can only imagine that next year will be bigger and better.

What I love about ideas is that when you share them, you never know how those ideas will turn out. I believed I had to do my "research" first to find out if a neighbourhood garage sale had ever happened. As it turned out, there hadn't been one, but that very weekend my neighbour and her friends were planning one. Some discussions happened amongst that group and it was decided to set a later date and invite the neighbours to join in this venture.

Over a cup of tea we decided what the invitation should say and came up with key points to share. One of the important things we thought to have on the invitation was the "why". Four points of "why" included 1) your cast offs could be some one's treasure, 2) meet your neighbours, 3) encourage recycling, and 4) just to have fun! Flyers were dropped off in each mail box of the neighbourhood and then we waited.

The invitation worked! There were about 14 neighbours who participated, and quite a few neighbours called to say they were away but would participate next time. Someone put signs up while another person put balloons out. One woman said she didn't want to have a garage sale, but would host a barbeque for those who had a garage sale. What a gem!

The end of the garage sale day came and we all headed over to our neighbour's with potluck contributions. Food, fun, and conversations were held with babes to seniors.

This neighbourhood garage sale was a success because it met the outcomes of meeting neighbours, recycling, having fun, and building relationships. When I reflect on the process what really happened was a community development approach to an event. Invitations to participate with a smaller group, talking about strengths, some informal research, setting priorities on how to best implement the event, and then broadening the invitation to others.

I only made $25 at my garage sale that day, but the relationships I started to build are priceless.

Babes in the Kitchen

2010-05-28T14:49:00.008-06:00

These babes were beautiful... all under 18 months old! At a recent ACE Community Building Workshop in Youngstown the local caterers were hard at work preparing lunch for almost 50 people. At the cooks' feet were three little ones. We did hear an occasional outburst, but nothing loud enough to take the attention away from the speaker.

Having the ability to bring children to a community event is valuable. In this situation, the mothers were able to work, earn extra income, keep their children with them, and support the community. In the communities ACE supports we have heard how important it is to have childcare available during community meetings.

Some communities have created situations where childcare is easily incorporated at community events . The feedback to the local leaders was tremendous. Often having childcare at the event meant spouses could attend. Other times it meant the parent could easily attend and participate in something in the community.

Childcare at community events reflect what communities are all about: uniting all. Child care at an event helps to bridge the gap between generations, provides opportunities for connectedness, elevates pressure on parents, gets more people involved, and reminds people of the different types of needs and groups of people in the community.

Thinking outside the lines on how to offer childcare during a community meeting is a good start to including families with younger children. Areas to tap into for support could be the youth, seniors, faith based groups, other parents, or people from neighbouring communities. Organizing a rotating schedule where different people can help and still participate in meetings would be useful.

Local businesses or parents could offer to supply snacks and toys. There is a tremendous amount of activities for children of all ages on-line and through books from the local library that could be tapped into and used to plan play activities.

Keeping in mind the whole community when planning large meetings helps to build a positive atmosphere. Meeting the needs of parents with children demonstrates to people the value of each community member. After all, those babes in the kitchen are our next leaders and we need to take care of them.

No Bananas for 80 Years

2010-04-23T11:06:00.006-06:00

Imagine not eating bananas for 80 years!

The story starts out at a Growing Rural Tourism Conference in Camrose. A dynamic, vibrant, and very energetic key note speaker threw bananas at the delegates. She was using bananas to link to change and working with your best customer: your staff. The speaker shared a story about an elderly man at one of her speaking engagements who had a story about bananas. At seven he peeled an banana and found a worm. Ever since then, this almost 90 year old man has never eaten a banana. He would peel them for his children and grandchildren, but at arm's length.

The speaker bridged the story to change and how some people find change so difficult. Change is one of those processes where some embrace it and others hide from it. Change is inevitable and change happens constantly. Why is it so hard then?

I believe it has to do with attitude. Checking our perception about change is a start. Change for the sake of change is not appropriate. However, helping people understand why the shift has to happen while honoring the past is important.

Rural communities are going through tremendous change. To name a few evident examples of change in rural areas: population shifts; demographics; resource fluctuation; lack of employment or lack of employees; limited internet access; rural culture changes; and lack of diverse volunteers.

But what do these changes mean in terms of community development? It means rural communities need to check-in about attitudes towards change. When communities apply a community development process where stakeholders are involved from the start, postive change can happen. Many communities are already embracing change while keeping the rural roots identity. Innovation is throughout rural Alberta and thinking outside the box is helping communities adjust to the pressures of change.

When you eat your next banana think about the next 80 years- what do you want your community to look like for the next generations?

The Hidden Volunteer

2010-04-21T11:55:00.005-06:00

Recently I discovered that my neighbour takes a shopping bag along with him when he takes his daily walk and picks up litter. He told me it is not any bother and does not take time away from his walk. I am amazed at his dedication not only to his own health and wellness, but to the health of the environment. It is these "hidden" volunteers that contribute so much to our lives without us even knowing it. However, these individuals are never recognized, but then again, maybe the wish to remain anonymous.

Volunteerism is the core to our communities. Many of us volunteer or has volunteered at one point or another. Most of us have attended an event or been part of a program where a volunteer was involved. Whether a volunteer is "hidden" or has a more formal role, volunteers are necessary.

This week of April 18-24 it is Volunteer Week and there are special volunteer recognition events happening in many communities. Minister Lindsay Blackett of Culture and Community Spirit shares a special video about volunteerism: http://www.youtube.com/user/AlbertaCulture?feature=mhw5#p/u/1/hS2HjfMLims

Volunteer Alberta has an excellent website with various resources helpful to an organization working with volunteers. People wanting to volunteer can check out their local volunteer organization, the town, or ask a particular organization if there is a need for any volunteers.

Even businesses need volunteers. One community in Alberta worked with local seniors on utilizing the seniors' talents for businesses to "pay off" a community futures loan. Many businesses in the community had taken out a $5,000 loan from Community Futures and in turn the money was used for a bus. This community bus was meant for seniors who could attend out-of-town functions. What a unique way to capture volunteerism!

Whether a person is a "hidden" volunteer or a volunteer involved in a particular organization, our world is definitely a better place for it.

The Good "Stuff"

2010-04-01T14:07:00.005-06:00

What if there was a newspaper or publication that only focused on the good news? What a motivating piece of literature that would be! Most people love to hear the good news, or at least to end a conversation with good news so it diminishes the effects of the "bad" news.

Travelling throughout rural Alberta has been such a privilege over the last few months. As ACE Communities work with communities to host Community Building Workshops our team definitely hears many positive stories. At one point of the workshop participants are asked to share their "best story ever" about community development initiative. We are always astounded at what we hear. There is never duplication because each community initiative is unique and reflective of the community and its residents.

What stands out about this part of the workshop is that I am amazed that communities do not share this good "stuff" beyond the community. If others could read about the good news happening in other communities it would be inspirational. Sharing these stories could bridge the gap between communities and open up possibilities to share ideas and resources. Equally important, the stories would demonstrate the vitality and resilience of rural Alberta.

Community initiatives that move towards empowerment where residents are part of the decision making process are examples of positive stories. Building stronger, more cohesive communities are based on such a process. What needs to happen is spreading the word that communities are creating active, creative, and engaged communities!

In the meanwhile, remember to share "the good stuff" because it really does make a difference to others!

Work With Me!

2010-03-12T14:09:00.005-07:00

I recently asked three elected officials what it takes to effectively work with council. Part of the reason was to build a resource for the community leaders in ACE Communities, and the other reason was to hear responses from people who sit in that position. The responses were meaningful, specific, and realistic. I realize feedback from three elected officials across Alberta is only a very small snapshot, but it does provide a glimpse of how residents can contribute positively to the relationship with council. In any case, I have paraphrased the councillors' wisdom here.

Three messages stood out with the feedback from councillors: benefits, KISS, and relationships.

One councillor discussed sharing information with councillors in terms of benefits. Outline the pros and cons of the proposal. This included costs, resources, impacts, length of progress, and other pertinent information.

It was pointed out that the council is a diverse group of individuals and people may not be an expert in the situation presented to them. This means working with administration to ensure all the background information is shared and any documents forwarded clearly provide the benefits.

What about KISS? This does not mean to literally kiss, but rather to "keep it seriously simple". Be mindful that some councillors are part time, but all councillors have a tremendous amount of material to read and sift through. The tough advice to follow is to keep written and oral presentations short, concise, and clear with the needs and recommendations.

Last, but certainly not least important, is to build relationships. Tips to do that was to "pick up the phone" and share, as well as invite council to meetings or to be a representative at the meeting. If a councillor cannot attend a meeting be sure to share the outcomes, agenda, and minutes of the meeting. Remember that relationships work both ways and the councillors want to share their point of view.

Working effectively with elected official can potentially be every one's job, not just residents of a particular interest group. After all, every resident has the opportunity to vote for a member of council and it is important to know what each council member stands for. When working with council, it really means looking at building relationships in the community and bridging the gaps between stakeholders.

Lasting words to share from the elected officials: "Remember that councillors are just like you with some often tough decisions in front of them."

"I Skateboard AND Vote"

2010-02-12T15:49:00.006-07:00

For those of you who know me will realize I am NOT speaking about myself! I noticed the "I skateboard and vote" statement on a bumper sticker while driving in Edmonton. That statement caught my attention because it reflects an important civic responsibility: voting.

There can be some assumptions made that the driver, or at least, the person who stuck the bumper sticker on the car. The person who mounted the sticker may be under 25, but that is not for certain. In any case, a lot can be interpreted about the statement.

Perhaps the driver is sending a message about judgements. How do we judge a skateboarder? Do we think that they don't vote or care about their community because of the leisure activity they participate in? Do we think skateboarders are only young people? If so, does that mean they don't vote? Do we automatically equate youth to not voting?

Maybe the message is to make a stand that leisure for youth is important in communities. Youth skateboarders who pay attention to local politics could help create the stand that leisure is important to quality of life and vibrancy of a community. Youth can be connected to elected officials and share their insights about leisure.

What if the message is about valuing youth more and sharing with youth the importance of voting in elections? Voter turn-out for most age groups is decreasing steadily in Canada and this decrease does not set a positive role model for youth. The bumper sticker statement could be setting a standard for others. The standard could be that while it is important to have a healthy, active lifestyle, it is equally important to take responsibility in the community by voting. A person of any age could get to know their community by attending speaker series at voting time or chatting with elected officials.

Whatever the message the bumper sticker owner is sending it has definitely made an impact. Here I am blogging about the sticker and hundreds of Edmonton drivers have read it and will read it.

A bumper sticker about leisure and voting- at first it seems quite a disconnect, but when dissected I believe the two activities go hand in hand.

What Do You Love About Your Job?

2010-01-13T14:11:00.007-07:00

When I interact with people I often like to ask the question "What do you love about your job?" I not only ask my friends, family, and colleagues but also the people who provide specialized services to me. I ask this question because I think it helps me get to know people better. I also learn more about other people's jobs. However, what I have discovered is that often people learn something about themselves when they answer me.

Some people have been so surprised about my question. One person told me that in all his years of work no one had asked him that question. Another person hesitated because she had never thought about it. However, she did answer me in the most thoughtful, meaningful way which showed that she was making some internal connections about her work. Others easily shared a wide range of answers.

I believe a part of leadership skills is being aware of our passions. It is part of that process of self reflection and personal check-in to discover how we are doing. Everyone self reflects in different ways and at different times, but I find it helpful to make the time to do this.

Working with communities I have seen so many people doing what they love: working with people at a community level. The jobs may have different titles, the tasks will be diverse, and the job descriptions or volunteer positions varied. However, it seems that the main focus of the job is helping people increase their quality of life.

What a passion to have: contributing to the quality of life in the community. Those contributions and passions have the opportunity to be powerful in the most positive ways... Keep doing what you love!

The Dog Park

2010-01-13T13:11:00.008-07:00

A recently discovered "bumping place" in my community is the dog park. Apparently, it is the place to take your dog to learn to socialize, exercise, and play. Our new puppy, Lupa, loves it as do we- a tired, exercised dog is a happy dog!

It is an interesting culture at the dog park. For the first few weeks we knew the names of the dogs, their breed, age, gender, allergies, idiosyncrasies, and other tidbits of information. However, we didn't know the names of the owners! Over time we did begin to learn the owner's names. Dog owners have a routine of either walking the perimeter with their dog, playing with their dog in the middle of the park, or standing near the entrance to watch the dogs interact. I like to interact in a variety of ways in order to maximize my dog's experience. Now after taking Lupa to the dog park for about three months we are having great conversations about something in common with others: being a dog owner.

Having a dog park as a "bumping place" had never crossed my mind. I initially considered the dog park for just exercising the dog. Now I see it as a place to interact with other dog owners and learn more about dog behaviour. I look forward to our "outings" to the park because it is such a social place, for both humans and dogs.

This particular bumping place is special because the city had the foresight to utilize a piece of property that could never be developed. This foresight met the needs of a particular segment of the population. The park is oval, fenced in, has plenty of parking, and is lighted as a result of the commercial properties surrounding it. This means even after dark dog owners can frequent the park. City planners have recently spoke to dog owners to find out how a dog park can be built even more effectively.

A bumping place in any community is a place to be side-to-side with neighbours and have opportunities to interact. Often these bumping places, or gathering places, will be a place where people share a common interest or have the potential to discover differences. These bumping places can blossom into a chance to develop relationships that may forge into a particular community focus or initiative.

There are many stories in our own communities where these bumping places have brought together a group of people. These connections have often created initiatives, a movement, or a project in a community to make communities an even better place to live.

Take the time to seek out a "bumping place" that fits for you in your community. Or, create one yourself! You will never know what may transpire! After all, it is up to each of us to help contribute and create the quality of life we want in our neighbourhoods.

What Are Your Daily Bookends?

2009-12-11T10:33:00.008-07:00

"What bookends do you have to start and end your day?"

This was asked of a crowd of over 200 people at a conference. The motivational speaker was addressing how we enter and exit our day. Do we have a positive, reflective approach to our day? Do we view our day with gratitude? How do we answer someone when they ask "how are you?" The speaker continued to share special stories about the ways people answer that question. Some answers included... fabulous, phenomenal, super, terrific, awesome, and stunning. Other stories were funny, uplifting, and priceless.

What stood out for me during the dialogue was that even though I have heard this message before, it is one that I often minimize or not pay attention to. Building gratitude into my daily "bookends" is and should be a natural part of my day. Sandwiching my day between thoughtful and meaningful approaches would guide me to ensure I am consciously aware of the day's events.

Community leaders often build gratitude into community development planning. This "gratitude" is reflective of looking for growth and learning opportunities, building on strengths and successes, sharing stories, and being attentive to volunteers. A "go-for-it" attitude is often part of community success and many communities have benefited from community leaders with this style.

Bookends are not just meant to hold up books. Bookends can be used to withstand the pressure of the day- heavy or light. Applying a reflective, positive attitude toward the day can help build gratitude in what we have done in our communities, no matter how small something may seem.

Have Some Attitude

2009-12-04T11:26:00.004-07:00

On one of my recent neighbourhood walks I met Happy and a man with some attitude.

What struck me about this man was his positive, fun attitude. As our dogs met each other briefly the man told me about his ten year old dog. He named him Happy because the man received the dog on his birthday which was on New Year's Day. He thought it would be the best name for the dog as it reflected a "happy day" in more ways than one. I thought this example of attitude was priceless because the man's attitude was very uplifting.

Since then, I looked up the word attitude, and depending on which dictionary is used, attitude generally means "a complex mental state involving beliefs and feelings and values and dispositions to act in certain ways."

This means that it is all up to us; it is up to us to have the attitude that we can accomplish what we want. I once had a co-worker who had a lapel pin that read "attitude". She picked it up at a workshop that focused on having a positive attitude towards anything we do. Often when we hear someone has attitude we think of a "bad" or negative attitude. But, this is not always the case.

When I hear about the stories in rural communities and how amazing activities and changes are happening I know it is because of people's attitudes. Rural communities already have a unique make-up and culture of their own, so having attitude to reflect that is not surprising. The "can-do" attitude has kept many rural communities alive and focused on the values that hold them together. With many influences affecting rural communities the attitude does shift a bit, but it still comes down to the values reflected in rural communities that hold them together.

Attitude is a good thing to have. When people have an attitude of collaboration, breaking down barriers, and focusing on the aspirations of the communities then we have communities that thrive.

I believe it is known that a postive attitude is contagious. If that is true, then the attitudes of positive community building is really spreading in rural Alberta.

Neighbour Power!

2009-11-20T14:08:00.007-07:00

NEIGHBOUR POWER was a chant that was heard throughout the evening at an Edmonton Neighbourhood Strategy meeting with guest speaker Jim Diers. Diers was creating an atmosphere of food, fun, and storytelling around how communities are utilizing the strength of their neighbours to move forward.

Hearing the "chant" reminded me of one of my childhood shows- Seasame Street. Seasame Street just celebrated 40 years of being televised. The famous song "Who Are The People in Your Neighbourhood" is quite a trademark of the show. However, that song is quite powerful with its meaning for all ages, not just preschoolers.

Who are the people in our neighbourhood? When was the last time we said "hello" to a neighbour? We will only know who our neighbour is if we become active and engaged in our communities, at whatever level works for people.

Diers pointed out some key elements of community:

having a common identity
doing something at a manageable scale
having key gathering or "bumping" places
having a vehicle for collective action
having the power to care for one another
having power to demand justice

These key elements create a vehicle for bringing people together and moving forward to make communities a better place to live. It can start with two, three or more people, but the important piece is not one person can do it alone.

Diers goes on to say that we need to start where people are- in their own backyard. This is often where the block parties and other such neighbourhood events begin. From here, networks begin to flourish and people's passions can be tapped into.

We need to remember that each one of us have gifts from the head, heart, and hands, but they just look differently for some people. Sharing and building on our gifts can benefit not only ourselves, but also our communities.

Take a moment to chant "neighbour power" and see what happens... you might be surprised.

City Boy Meets Country Girl

2009-10-07T11:11:00.018-06:00

No, the title is not the start of a country song... rather, it is reflective of how two people with very diverse backgrounds learn about urban versus rural.

The conversation between my husband and I started out as "I have no idea of how you grew up, and I bet you have no idea of how I grew up." The conversation was not about how we were parented, but about how our play and way of life was so opposite.

Rural roots for me meant chores that used a pitchfork, rubber boots, a slop pail, and an axe for firewood. Picking wild berries, gardening, haying, branding, and calving time were all part of my summer. I cannot forget the famous rock picking in the fields! Chores for my urban husband meant cleaning out the bird cage and tidying his room.

Play in rural Alberta was the best in the world... we had the forest, rivers, creeks, fields, hay bales, animals, and so much to explore and experience. At times, we were able to go to a near-by community to attend a 4-H Club or a Girl Guides group.

Play in Montreal was very different... it was going to the arcade, catching the subway, driving to the country, exploring the streets, playing in the park, and engaging in organized activities with friends at the recreation centre.

While my husband has never lived rural, I have lived about half my life in a rural community. At times my husband catches glimpses of rural life as I share stories, we explore Alberta, and I tell him it is his turn to use the pitch fork to turn the garden soil or dig the potatoes. When we are out hiking I wonder if he thinks I am strange when I become excited about strawberry stained hands. The taste of domestic strawberries is nothing compared to that of wild strawberries... just very time consuming to pick!

When it comes to the end of the day, I find that rural and urban people can share some enticing stories about their experiences. What needs to happen is a shared understanding that both rural and urban have much to benefit, contribute, and learn from one another's ways.

I believe we need both rural and urban on the planet to make our world a better place. We just need to get busy recognizing that and then taking action to preserve our rural roots.

Storytelling is Everywhere

2009-07-10T15:40:00.025-06:00

Most of us love to storytell or hear stories. I know I loved and still love to hear stories from others. I grew up in a household where storytelling happened while I helped my mom cook or when I worked in the field with my dad. Growing up my much older brothers often said "when you were little you use to...." Of course, I loved to hear things about ME as a child! Now, I treasure these stories. As a child sitting with the adults I was a captive audience as I listened to their stories of the past.

We all participate in storytelling but may not call it that. Sitting around over a cup of coffee and sharing what is happening in our lives is storytelling. Calling, emailing, writing, texting, you-tube, and blogging is a way to share one's story. Using a digital frame or photo album to display personal events and invite conversation about the pictures is storytelling. Even movies is a way to explain particular events.

What makes storytelling important to us? It is a way to share an event and how the events affected us. It is a way to connect with others, celebrate, share challenges and tranfer knowledge.

Communities may not think that storytelling fits for them. But storytelling is already very common for communities. Community websites, local groups with blogs, books about local events, newspaper stories, plaques on buildings, a student thank you card about the field trip to the local grocery store, and numerous other avenues is a way to portray a community story. Snapshot stories or captions about an event or person in a leisure guide are even a manner of storytelling.

The creative side of storytelling can be inspired by using puppetry, music, drama, theatre, costume, dance, art, and several other mediums. Have you ever watched a cultural event or observed an artist at work and wondered about the story behind the tools, costume, or instrument? The curiousity the drives us to find out more about something is quite powerful and rewarding.

Alberta Community and Co-operative Association was represented at a "Growing Rural Tourism" conference where I participated in a storytelling session. Like the Co-operative Association, ACE Communities encourages the communities we work with to share stories in order to communicate successes and experiences. This sharing opens doors for communities to learn from one another. It is a way to discover more about how a community is growing, learning, and changing. The storytelling is an opportunity to understand different ways of doing things and a way to identify assets, both intangible and tangible.

Equally important, storytelling is a way that communities can raise the profile of rural Alberta and share the importance of rural communities.

Seeing the Bigger Picture

2009-07-10T14:21:00.009-06:00

Recently I was able to represent Alberta Recreation and Parks Association at a "Growing Rural Tourism" Conference in Camrose, AB. One participant asked me what the campsite space measurements were for the local campground being built in their community. Others did not see the connection between recreation and parks to tourism.

This left me realizing that sometimes within our own organizational circle we may take for granted that others easily understand what the organization is able to provide. Alternatively, we may forget that the focus we are involved with does not always have the same meaning to people not immersed within the sector.

To me, that means that developing connections and partnerships is vital to create awareness about what organizations do. Creating connections between other sectors helps to demonstrate how interwoven and interdependent we really are. It helps all of us see the "bigger picture".

Developing partnerships and connections does take work. Sometimes it means thinking outside the box. Sometimes it even means breaking down barriers. However these relationships are created, they take time and attention.

Partnership building between cross-sectors seems to be one of the best way to move forward in the future for organizations because it creates more space for success and collaboration. The process creates opportunity for growth and learning.

Tourism, recreation, and parks is a natural fit for developing partnerships. Whether a tourist or a resident the impacts of recreation and parks affects quality of life.

In essence, developing partnerships and connections is a way to build the setting in order to see the bigger picture. Some of us are just able to see the picture before the entire frame is built.

The Fig Tree

2009-05-04T11:10:00.010-06:00

Who would have known that a fig tree means home to someone? This conversation took place between my husband and I recently. A year ago we moved to Alberta, purchased a house, and had been exploring how to beautify the garden area. Over the course of the last year I have asked my husband what special shrub or fruit tree we could plant. The answer was repeatedly a "fig tree" and my response was "there is no way it would grow in Alberta."

For some reason last week something triggered a deeper conversation about this. I learned that the "fig tree" did not necessarily mean we should grow a fig tree. The fig tree had a symbolic meaning and represented "home". I wonder if the fig tree symbolism stems from his Italian heritage, his many visits to Italy, his love for dried figs, or something else? Whatever the case may be, a fig tree holds a significant meaning to my husband.

Three important points came up for me from this fig tree conversation. For one, I need to ask more questions in order to reach deeper conversations with people. Second, what represents home for me? Lastly, in a world where there is so much movement, urban sprawl, expansion, and loss of rural identity, what do rural residents need in order to have something to symbolize home?

Home to me is not a place, but a sense of space; a space where I FEEL at home. A space where I can be myself, create a sanctuary, and people can visit without appointments.

How can rural communities have a sense of space and home when the face and essence of rural communities are dissolving? Perhaps maintaining the rural connections with one another will help; resisting the treadmill, but still keeping current; be proud and embrace the rural roots; and share the passion with others about what it means to be rural.

Finding the "fig tree" in your backyard may look different to your neighbour's. But, perhaps in re-connecting with our own "fig tree" we will discover that "home is where the heart is".

Busy, Busy, Busy....

2009-03-19T16:07:00.008-06:00

"How are you?"... "Busy!"... "What about you?"..."Busy, VERY busy."..."Good for you! See you, I have to go because I have so much to do!"

Does this sound familiar? It seems that more than ever the people in my life, whether work or friends, are so busy that we are missing out on some valuable pieces in our life. It seems that people are missing the slowness of eating a meal and savouring it, chatting with someone without feeling rushed, reflecting on learnings, or celebrating accomplishments. Too often we create an identity by being busy, but often resent the results.

But what does busy mean? In my paperback version of the Oxford dictionary it states 1) "having a great deal to do"; 2) "currently occupied with an activity", and 3) "excessively detailed". Further investigation in the root meaning of the word busy shows it as "busy body in terms of prying, meddlesome." An interesting fact is that the phrase "busy work" was first recorded in 1910. So, when machines began to be introduced more and more into our lives, we began to be "busy".

Occasionally I have taken time management courses and these have been superb. I have learned different ways to make my work flow manageable, my household and workspace more efficient, and ways to work harder with little time. Then, I took a leadership course where we were taught to turn away from looking at time management in terms of a clock. Rather, we were encouraged to look at time management as management of our self. It is true... the clock will continue to tick and we cannot control time. But, we can take steps to manage our own behaviour, how we respond to our workload, how to set priorities, to be flexible, and take responsibility for our actions. We often set ourselves up to seek balance, but fail. How can we seek balance when the universe is always changing?

Rural communities often have places where people can stop and chat with one another without being rushed. Coffee chats at the local diner or at a neighbour's home before a days' work springs to mind. But, the influx of urban dwellers moving into rural communities is influencing the rural atmosphere because of different expectations. I wonder how the trend of "busy" will affect rural communities in the future? I know that I will treasure my days of being in a rural community when making connections with others, as well as nature, was valued by most.

Take a T.R.I.P. to Rural Communities!

2009-02-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

Imagine a university student team of six and two professors travelling in a ten passenger van for three weeks throughout a pre-designated route in rural British Columbia. Major cities were avoided and the group ate at locally owned restaurants and stayed in locally owned accommodations. Some words that might come to mind would be insightful, powerful, amazing, fun, tiring, and educational.

One of my courses in university was an applied course after the regular semester finished where we did just that: travel rural BC. During my third year of my Bachelor of Tourism and Recreation Management degree the opportunity came to be part of this course. Having grown up in rural Alberta participating in the course matched my interests. I thought the information about TRIP would be useful to share with ACE Communities as some of Alberta’s rural communities look for tourism as one economic support. The TRIP project also reflects similar areas of ACE Communities in connecting and learning from one another, a community of practice.

The overall premise of the Tourism Research Innovation Project, or TRIP, is to “address the need for enhanced knowledge exchange in tourism development within rural areas in the province of British Columbia, and is intended to act as a model for similar in rural communities throughout Canada” (http://trip-project.ca/). The project has many funders both provincially and federally, but the real support comes from the rural stakeholders in their exchanges with one another.

TRIP objectives include: (http://trip-project.ca/)
- Mobilize information and resources in tourism development within rural communities;
- Understand the realities of rural tourism development through dialogue with community leaders and tourism entrepreneurs;
- Document case studies and innovative tourism practices and sharing them throughout the province;
- Link academic and non-academic partners in rural tourism development in British Columbia;
- Reshape policy, planning decisions and education programming in BC to reflect the needs of tourism development in rural areas.

What does this mean? Students, professors, and liaisons work with rural stakeholders before, during, and after the three week trips to gather and share information and resources, as well as connecting people with one another. The extension trips are entering a fifth year where another group will be “hitting the road”. Some of the greatest learnings came from the local stakeholders and not the text book. It was amazing to see how innovative, resourceful, and strong people were when faced with adversity when local resource based industries closed down.

I would have to say my most amazing experience was the day we visited Likely, BC. It was amazing because of the rural hospitality, warmth of the residents, and the connections that were made. This small community in the Cariboo-Chilotin region has managed to stay viable in unique ways. Likely is rich in natural resources and many out-door enthusiasts have flocked there. As well, a community forest was formed to create jobs for local people. The community residents really take time to listen to one another during community meetings and take steps to move forward on the residents’ recommendations. As a result, some of the residents of Likely have continued to be a part of other students’ lives with various projects.

To me, the example of Likely and TRIP demonstrate how important it is to connect and network with rural communities. Not only is it important that rural communities connect with one another, but links between urban and rural need to be formed. These connections create a community of practice: a place where communities can share and learn from each other’s experiences. If rural communities, and urban, stay individualistic these learnings only benefit a few, rather than many.

So, next time take a TRIP… a RURAL ALBERTA TRIP!

Rural Business Development

2009-01-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

What I love about small Alberta communities is the cozy shops and pretty storefronts. At times when I see only a few shops I wonder what business opportunities could surface. I imagine that some community residents in rural areas yearn for a gas station, a gift shop, or some other small business that would add vitality, variety, and convenience to the community. So, why does this not happen? Or why do existing small businesses in rural communities fail?

At times, communities view private businesses as only beneficial to the owner. However, there are benefits to the community from local businesses such as employment; an increase in available goods and services; diversification in the economic base; dollars going back into the local economy; and an attraction of amenities to new and existing residents. Sometimes, a local business in a rural community can be an informal meeting place for residents, or a “hub”. In essence, small businesses in rural communities can increase some aspects of quality of life.

Local business owners sometimes need assistance to be successful. Patronizing a business is not always enough. At times local business owners may need assistance in writing a business plan, marketing strategies, tips on how to be innovative, and so forth. This does not mean that the business owner lacks business sense, but needs some support to strengthen their business skills. Where no Chamber of Commerce exists, developing a formal or informal business network within a region could assist local entrepreneurs. Drawing upon the local expertise in this manner builds collaboration in regions and communities, not competition.

On the other hand, local entrepreneurs need to be encouraged to begin new ventures. Sometimes the talent and business minds are already within the community, and this means new businesses do not always have to come from outside a community. Creating an atmosphere where local entrepreneurs feel welcomed and supported can go a long way.

There are several innovative ways to start, build, and maintain a business. The foundation lies within local support, collaboration, networking, and a willingness to go outside the box. Maybe develop a food co-op or have local residents invest $500 into the business and pay dividends. Partnerships in business can be very diverse and do not need to always be traditional.

So, as I continue to travel and explore rural Alberta I will keep my eye out for those small, unique and cozy shops. I will look for the friendliness of rural hospitality and go away with another grateful thought about why I love rural communities.

Note: Some of the ideas were adapted from Kinsley, M. (n.d.). RMI's Economic Renewal Program: An Introduction. Rocky Mountain Institute.

The Travelling “Flat Shawn”

2009-01-10T03:46:00.000-07:00

A grade seven Social Studies student from Manitoba known by the name “Flat Shawn” made it into my lunch conversation the other day. A friend was visiting and mentioned how a student from her home town mailed a package with instructions about “his travelling flat self”.

The package included a picture of a 12 year old boy, a letter, and a journal indicating that the Social Studies teacher wanted students to learn more about how other people live, work, and play. The students and teacher discussed possibilities, budget, and so on. A field trip and time off school was not permitted, so it was decided that students would travel via Canada Post to a friend. Students had a picture taken of each of them, wrote a letter to the recipient, and mailed a package with journal pages. The premise is that the recipient would take the “Flat Student” along to daily activities and include the “Flat Student” as much as possible. It was encouraged that the recipient take pictures, write in the journal, email updates, and send a post card to the “Flat Student”. During this time, the student would record the “journey” in a personal journal and incorporate the recipient’s journal at a particular deadline.

“Flat Shawn” has had some interesting and engaging experiences since being in my friend’s life. “Flat Shawn” received special work clothes, a hard hat, a visitor’s pass, many photo-ops, and soon a trip to the Caribbean. Maybe I will trade places! She mentioned how colleagues became very enthusiastic, involved, and engaged in “Flat Shawn’s” journey. The level of participation and interest was contagious and many of the colleagues gave suggestions on how “Flat Shawn” could be more active and involved. It is fascinating to hear how this piece of cardboard has evoked such an alliance between colleagues.

Hearing this story promoted my thoughts about how to incorporate a “Flat Shawn” into the Active, Creative, Engaged (ACE) Communities Team that I am a part of. At times, I have wondered how to be enthusiastic, uplifting, and generate “spirit” in an environment where most people work from a home office and are scattered across the province of Alberta and beyond. Most team members communicate through emails and phone calls because of the distance between one another. This distance means that most typical office interactions where someone brings in a birthday cake, shares funny stories, and so on do not occur. Often those office interactions between colleagues can breed enthusiasm, spirit, and keep people going throughout the day.

“Flat Shawn” will be introduced during the next teleconference. Perhaps we can create our own “Flat Shawn” or ACE Mascot. We could make a flat mascot as a cardboard stand-up; mail it to each team member, and who knows from there? Being part of team that focuses on supporting rural communities, leaders, and residents to be active, creative, and engaged could evoke interesting results. Who knows where a travelling “Flat Shawn” could go with the ACE team. Our team is already quite creative, spirited, and energetic so the results could be VERY engaging! Stay posted!

Avocados and Pepsi

2008-12-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering how avocados and Pepsi link to communities and community development. First, my personal learning about the avocado and a Pepsi can. My garden activities have been greatly influenced by snow. So, I have created an inside garden next to my house plants. I purchased two avocados in October and I thought it would be a superb idea to further test my gardening skills by attempting to help those avocado pits grow. If you have ever examined one of the avocado pits they are brown, hard, a bit oval, and very difficult to put a dent into. However, with a lot of patience, nurturing, and continuous fresh water something has started to happen. After two months there is now a crack on top and without doubt I know there will soon be some growth.

The Pepsi can has a different story. Friends were coming over and I needed to have some refreshments ready. I was being impatient and trying to do too many things at once. Walking out of my pantry room with arms full of food items I heard a crash and something like a BIG pop. I looked and brown liquid had spread EVERYWHERE from the exploding Pepsi can (don’t try this at home). In the moment I remained quite calm and proceeded to clean up the mess. More importantly I was rewarded with my calm reaction to the situation. This may seem silly to some, but sometimes accepting those little things in the midst of a challenging day can be difficult!

My stories link to communities and community development in terms of how communities move forward. My own experiences with rural communities are that patience helps the journey to greater successes. Growing up the common term on the farm was “next year we’ll get to it”. It did not mean that the item would get lost or forgotten. But rather, the process to reach the goal would take longer. Slowing down means making sure key pieces are in place and that people are part of the process.

When communities try to juggle too many things at once, like my Pepsi cans, then something has to give. But, when something critical does occur reactions to the event speaks volumes to the capacity of a community learning from the incident. At one time one of my professors shared a simple formula: E + R= O. Emotion plus reaction equals outcome. This seems quite simple, but I think it is important to remember that we can shape the outcome of events in many ways. I admit, at one point I wanted to throw out my avocado pit that didn’t seem to be doing anything. But, I was gently reminded that some things take more time, and this was one of those instances.

Rural communities face many challenges while trying to stay rural in the urban forest. Building ways within communities that keep practices and people active, creative and engaged will help communities move forward. Taking the time to set the structures to move forward without leaping ahead takes group effort. However, with some time, patience, and trust things will start to grow, like the avocado pit.

“The whole struggle of life is to some extent a struggle about how slowly or how quickly to do each thing.” Sten Nadolny (author)

Growing Up Rural…

2008-12-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

When first approached about writing a blog I thought, “What could I write about? I don’t know where to start!” But, when I put my mind to it I realized I had somewhere very real and meaningful to start from. I began to reflect upon where I grew up: rural Alberta on the border of British Columbia: Gundy, AB. There were no amenities except for the community hall, cattle range, cemetery, refuse dump, and two ball diamonds. We had to travel about 12 miles for the mail and the convenience store and 25 miles to the closest urban centre. For many years, there was only one road to access the community which was through British Columbia. Finally in the 80’s a secondary road was built from Alberta to the area.

Growing up on a mixed farm in Gundy I learned about what makes a community. I learned how meaningful connections can be made, and how connections can be strengthened, even with people who have been in the area for years. I learned where to turn to for support. Money rarely exchanged hands for work done; rather, a person’s word was taken at face value. A new neighbour was welcomed with a pot of chilli, home made buns, and cookies. Everyone was invited to the annual potlucks held throughout the year. No appointment was ever necessary to stop in to a neighbour. The coffee pot was on, the cookie tin was always full, and people stopped their work to sit and talk with each other. In spite of differences amongst some individuals the community was somehow able to move forward together. When my father had a farming accident the community rallied together to raise some funds to give us some financial support till my father was able to farm again. I recall while my father was hospitalized the farming and haying still got finished. How? By neighbours who brought over their own machinery without asking and just did it. Even as I write this and recall my childhood I have tears over that strong sense of community where people were connected in some shape or form.

In today’s world rural communities struggle to hold their identity in many different ways. Rural communities fight to keep or bring back their young people, strive to stay connected with emerging needs of urbanites relocating to rural, work hard to dissolve old rivalries, and endeavour to keep local businesses thriving. The 100 Mile Movement should not be a trend; it should be a mind-set. All levels of government need to begin to demonstrate that policy includes urban and rural. Equally important, governments and urban organizations need to include rural community leaders and organizations into dialogue and consultation. But, it starts with us and our own attitude about what rural communities mean to us.