flexible Structure
The best way to predict
the future is to create it.
the future is to create it.
Peter Drucker
Developing a sustainable Lifelong Community differs based on the unique assets available to you. Multiple approaches exist for structuring your initiative and its leadership team for long-term success. A key factor to consider is flexibility. The structure that works today may not be the one that carries you forward. Plan with the future in mind but be ready to change as the assets available to you evolve.
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Old Orchard Beach Community Friendly Connections, co-chair, Lee Koenig, receives the Spirit of America award, presented by fellow co-chair Cathy Chaisson and Town Manager Diana Asanza.
Embed Lifelong Communities within Municipal Structure
This can take several different forms:
Lifelong Community or Age-Friendly commitee is appointed as a standing committee
Lifelong or Age-Friendly Committee works with other town committees
Lifelong or Age-Friendly Committee Presents of regular updates to municipal officials
Municipal officials participate in the Lifelong or Age-Friendly Committee work
These approaches have benefits for ensuring Lifelong Community goals will be carried into the future. For example, Age-Friendly Eliot was tasked by the town manager with developing a property tax abatement program and reviewing Accessory Dwelling Unit requirements. Their recommendations were accepted by town officials and passed at town meeting. As an appointed committee that earned the trust and respect of the town manager and elected officials, Age-Friendly Eliot was able to influence policy for generations to come.
The Georgetown Trekkers was fun for all ages
Emphasiz All Ages in Lifelong Communities
From birth to 120+,the Lifelong Community approach reflects the full community. Everyone can relate and be excited. For example, during their assessment, Age-Friendly Georgetown asked school children how the community could be more age-inclusive and has since developed programs for all ages, such as the Georgetown Trekkers, a summer hiking challenge customized for different ages.
Aging Well in Waldo County leadership team
Plan for Leadership Succession
Change happens. Lifelong Community teams that strategically plan for transitions on the core team are better prepared when a leader steps away.
Co-Chair Model. Collaborative leadership models reduce the workload, improves perspective, and ease changes when people come and go. Several communities, including Age-Friendly South Portland, have adopted a co-chair model. Other groups, such as Age-Friendly Windham, have an official chair but also depend on input from a core leadership team of 3 people. If someone has to step away, there is at least one person ready to continue in a leadership position.
Recruiting for needed skills. A diverse leadership team, with members from different backgrounds and skillsets is key for your Lifelong Community to expand its scope and reach. For example, China for a Lifetime recruits specific people to the leadership team who have needed skills.
Key resource on SUSTAINABLE
LIFELONG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Implementing sustainable change in your Lifelong Community initaitive means embedding age-inclusive considerations in the fabric of your community, in local organizations, municipal departments, and among residents. Although it can seem daunting to achieve, David Noonan's article, The 25% revolution - How big does a minority have to be to reshape society? in Scientific American concludes that we only need to reach about 25% of the population in our communities to effect change. After a few successful wins and some well-deserved publicity, you will be surprised at how quickly awareness grows and how excited your partners will be to join with you. After all, who can be against communities that are great laces to grow up and to grow older?
We love the work of Cormac Russell has done using an asset-based approach to develop solutions to community problems.