2. Urban Connections Program Today Brought to you by the Eastern Region

3. Program Overview What: Urban Connections is a highly visible and successful program started by the Eastern Region in 1999 as a way to connect with urban stakeholders. Why: Extensive research demonstrated that a large gap existed between the Forest Service and urban constituents. Who: Urban Connections focuses on non local stakeholders, to include underserved urban constituents Where: The program has been launched in Boston, Minneapolis and Detroit, with exploratory work occurring in other Eastern Region cities such as Chicago and New York.. Bridging the gap between rural communities and city dwellers

4. A simple message ! Increase awareness and share information regarding National Forest activities and opportunities with the urban residents that use or could use the forest. Increase the awareness and understanding the Forest Service has for its urban constituents, and involve them in new ways with the Forest. Expand employment opportunities for our urban neighbors. Coordinate efforts with all Forest Service branches

5. The Missing Stakeholders On the Ground Local Communities National Non-Local Urban

6. Gateway to the Forest Service for the Urban Audience in the East  Networking in cities to link shared interests  Relevancy through dialogue  Creating healthier environments through partnerships  Building capacity for diverse hiring

7. Urban Connections…..”Connecting Citizens to the Land” Milwaukee

8. Organizational Structure of the USDA Forest Service Eastern Region Urban Connections Program Public and Government Relations Director Urban Connections Program Manager STEP Intern (High School) STEP Intern (High School) STEP Intern (High School) Detroit Program Manager Boston Program Manager STEP Intern Minneapolis Program Manager RETIREE MENTOR Milwaukee outreach team Chicago outreach team

9. “Planting Small seeds grows big opportunities”

10. Measuring Success 1. Increased visibility and awareness of the Forest Service, Eastern region 2. Partnerships with Communities w/ Increased ability to leverage funds in communities 3.Constituent Information and Involvement Increased knowledge among urban residents about the responsible use of natural resources 4. Stewardship of Forests 5. Forest Service’s Organizational Effectiveness

11. Partnerships / Collaborations  National Football League - - - Carbon Neutral  Strive Media – Diversity through Media  Greenfield Village- - Conservation Education  Microsoft - - -FS in every classroom  Wildlife Forever –Renewable Resources .............. AND YOU !

13. WEBSITE http://www.fs.fed.us/r9/urban_connections/ ARLENE WHITE TWIN CITIES URBAN CONNECTIONS COORDINATOR 1992 FOLWELL AVE., ST. PAUL, MN 55108 651-649-5250 abwhite@fs.fed.us