The importance and value of community engagement

A lot of people ask me how I:
- have such a cool job
- go to interesting places like Cuba
- do a TV show
- make it on the radio
- know so many elected officials
- Meet with foreign delegations

And my answer is simple...really, really simple. So much of what I do has to do with my time spent in civic life. If it wasn't for my time with community organizations, I wouldn't have the opportunities I have now. Here is my step-by-step formula to entrance and success in civic life (note- no pedigree or ivy league degree required!):

Step 1: Research an organization that has the capacity to (or potential to) make an impact in your community
Step 2: SHOW UP TO A MEETING
Step 3: Volunteer to serve on a committee/project
Step 4: Find a mentor within the organization
Step 5: Accept a nomination to serve on the Board
Step 6: Accept a nomination to serve as President

Now, the hardest thing for me was showing up to a meeting. I didn't know anyone in the organization and was a little shy about waltzing into a reception/forum/meeting where I was sure everyone knew each other and were best friends. This couldn't be further from the truth. Civic organizations are thrilled to have new members and are eager to give you a leadership position right away. I can't tell you how many committees I just end up on. And they will ask you to serve on the Board. And they will ask you to be President. Finding a mentor within the organization fosters an informal learning environment where so many of us learn how to be a leader. So my challenge to you: Show up to a meeting and volunteer! And I expect a full report!

Opportunities for YOU to get involved!

I attend a lot of different kinds of community events. Some on behalf of my job, some just because I want to. Many of my friends say "Katie, if I had known about this meeting/event/reception/panel, I would have gone with you!". There are so many ways you can get involved, get informed and affect real change in your community. So, here are some opportunities to do just that!

- 16th Annual St. Johns River Celebration Cleanup with the St. Johns Riverkeeper. Here is a link to the flyer with all the location options and times: http://www.coj.net/NR/rdonlyres/eahqd3mr6wkj62b4uwp4vrr3zukjt4yh3kyevdys5o7ty63u5g3lbqqslkbi3af2fhmpcqnnep5q54h7whs5qkfjipb/2011+Flyer+2+17+2011.pdf

- Leadership in the Age of Obama Panel. Sponsored by DCPS, UNF and The Presidential Campaign of Matthew Gilbert Middle School. Hear from panelists and join in on a community dialogue on leadership in the Jacksonville community. 6-8pm UNF Student Union (Ballroom A)

- VOTE! The first election for Mayor, City Council, Tax Collector, Property Appraiser and Sheriff will be held Tuesday March 22nd! Polls will be open that day 7am-7pm. Want to avoid the rush and vote early? Check out the Duval County Supervisor of Elections website for early voting location and general voting information.
http://www.duvalelections.com/

See you at the polls!

Everyone else has a blog...why can't I?

Welcome to my blog! I've finally joined the blogosphere! I decided that there were so many great ways to get engaged in the Jacksonville community yet no one resource that keeps track of it all. Now I won't have EVERYTHING posted here but will make every effort to keep you up to date on public meetings, forums, debates and the occasional rant (as the blog's name implies). Enjoy!