BUILDING A CONNECTED COMMUNITY Dr. Janet Denhardt, Arizona State University

White Paper: Connected Communities ALLIANCE FOR INNOVATION transformgov.org James Svara and Janet Denhardt, Editors

CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT: WHAT IS IT? Moving from a one way exchange to a multi- directional dialogue Inform, consult, involve and/or collaborate Can be formal or informal

WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE? Opportunities to become responsible citizens Building capacity to meet unanticipated problems Practicing leadership that encourages flexibility, relationships and trust.

WHAT ISN’T CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT? NOT city council meetings or hearings NOT a discrete activity such as a meeting or an appointment to an advisory board

WHY DO IT? 1) Because it is the smart thing -public acceptance and support -unknown challenges -better solutions to complex problems 2) Because it is the right thing -our belief in democracy -build citizenship, responsibility and community

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE? Public servants and citizens, government and non-governmental organizations

WHO ARE WE TRYING TO ENGAGE? Citizens are any member or resident of the community—not a legal status Aim at a broad spectrum of people Engage citizens, not customers

Many different techniques and strategies In general, figure out the goal and then pick an approach that fits HOW DO WE DO IT ?

ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES Surveys, citizen panels, focus groups Information and education Internet and social media Deliberation and dialogue Service delivery and measurement The arts Existing community organizations Changing the local government organization

WHAT MATTERS IN SUCCESS? Choose techniques that match your goals Honestly assess readiness Choose the right times and situations

What Does Success Look Like? 1) If I want to participate, am I welcome and able to do so? 2) If I participate, will I be heard? 3) If I am heard, will anything happen?

White Paper: Connected Communities ALLIANCE FOR INNOVATION transformgov.org James Svara and Janet Denhardt, Editors