Project Summary

The purpose of the program is to increase the number of skillful, collaborative citizen leaders able to engage difficult community issues. The three-hour sessions alternate learning about an issue from multiple perspectives, small group discussions, and civil discourse process training.

About me

I have been a member of the Whatcom County community since 1979, employed by the City of Bellingham since 1986. I have been involved in local projects around sustainability as it relates to farming, the environment, water resources and community health. I am a member of the Bellingham/Whatcom County Commission Against Domestic Violence and Leadership Whatcom. My extensive community involvement is driven by a deep love of my community and determination to help maintain its unique character, along with my strong commitment to community health. Much of my work has involved gathering people with divergent views together to find common ground and resolve differences. I believe honest civil dialog builds trust and leads to better solutions to community problems. Through my work in the community I have gained the trust of local leaders and community activists who know that an event organized by me will be a good use of their time so I have had tremendous success with attendance. I enjoy launching projects then handing them over to individuals or community groups to sustain over time. Examples are the Whatcom County Farm Map and Guide, in its 10th year and Procession of the Species Parade, approaching it's fourth anniversary. Leadership Whatcom volunteers and alumni co-designing Productive Public Conversations contribute rich experience in the areas of adult learning, leadership training, community organizing, democratic process design, and civic engagement.