Community Problem Solving, Civic Engagement, and Community Building

The city encourages projects that apply information technology to solving community problems, encouraging civic engagement and supporting community building. We look for projects that will engage individuals not usually involved in the civic process. The goal is to integrate technology tools into community building and civic engagement activities, which may result in a mix of online and in-person activities.

These projects should ultimately result in:
1) Increased awareness of community issues; and
2) Increased community participation in problem solving.
3) In creased interaction with government.

Here are links to some community problem solving, civic engagement and community building examples. You are not limited to these types of projects:

International District Housing Alliance Youth and Seniors project Video
International District Housing Alliance Youth and Seniors project presentation
America Speaks
E-democracy
Bridging the Gap between Citizens and Local Government with Information Technology

Your project could expand the use of Internet tools (such as email lists, web forums, collaboration tools) or use in-person technology (such as mobile polling, photo or video, mapping devices). Your project is likely to include marketing and training activities to encourage participation.

This is a relatively new area for many community groups, so we invite you to contact us to discuss your ideas.