What Do You Know That Can Make Everett Better? Asset Mapping Event Saturday

It may be a skill, a talent or an observation you haven’t shared. It could be a place, an event or activity that you find worthwhile but aren’t sure anyone else may have an interest in discovering. Come put it on the map.

This Saturday everyone in Everett is invited to participate in what called an Asset Mapping workshop. Here’s more information from the City of Everett’s Office of Neighborhoods.

EVERETT – The City of Everett Office of Neighborhoods and Community Engagement invites the community to attend a free asset-mapping workshop with Jim Diers on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Evergreen Middle School (7621 Beverly Lane).

Diers, a neighborhood advocate and community activator, will share stories from around the world and lead participants through an exercise known as asset mapping, where participants will explore the talented people and physical resources within our community.

“Asset mapping is the process of identifying the skills, talents, and interests of people, and those physical resources in a community or neighborhood, such as meeting rooms, commercial kitchens or playfields,” said Wendy McClure, neighborhoods and community engagement coordinator. “This workshop is a chance for community members to learn about recognizing and tapping the capacity within the Everett community to make positive change.”

Participants will have an opportunity to envision stronger communities and discuss what they want for their own neighborhoods. They will also begin mapping resources and assets within the area that can be tapped for activities and projects to enhance their neighborhoods.

“Improving the quality of life, having fun and feeling a sense of belonging are just some of the benefits of coming together as a community,” said Diers. “When we know the gifts, skills and dreams of people in the community and the resources available, making improvements can be so much more successful.”

Diers is a speaker, facilitator, author and activator with a passion for getting people, associations and agencies engaged with their communities. He currently teaches courses in community organizing and development at the University of Washington and consults with residents and cities around the world.

“Everyone is encouraged to participate – neighbors, businesses, non-profits, schools, faith and culturally-based communities, all ages, all abilities – everyone who wants to get better connected with community and make their neighborhood the best possible place!” said Diers.

The public is invited to attend this free workshop. Those interested in attending can register at www.everettwa.gov/engageRSVP.

For workshop details, visit www.everettwa.gov/assetmapping. For more information on Everett neighborhoods and community engagement, visit www.everettwa.gov/neighborhoods.