15 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BUILDING 13 Community Council’s work has affected individuals in many ways. Volunteering to improve their community in a setting that is welcoming, open, diverse, respectful, educational, encouraging, and unbiased was a significant life experience for many participants. One person noted that when we build bridges between community groups “people grow.” “Community Council’s work is done by community members who have a vested interest in the project outcomes. It is ‘collective brilliance’ in action.” DEVON PLAYER Advocacy Coordinator, Community Council IMPACTS Changing Lives Other participants recalled how the process impacted them: Observing and hearing diverse cross-sections of the community speak during the inclusive process at a large Community Council gathering changed one participant in a “fundamental way.” “In my professional career, it was one of the most moving processes I have ever been involved in.” One person said that serving on Community Council’s board was impactful. “I was really surprised to be at that table. It was incredibly informative. It was one of my first experiences of having a seat at the table in my hometown.” The board service was a “leadership growth experience.” One person learned to advocate for legislative changes by the Walla Walla City Council and the Washington State Legislature. “It was a good experience. It brought out a lot of good in me.” Another participant noted that the Community Council study process brings people together who might not share the same views. Community Council’s process taught one individual to let the community guide the outcome. “My whole love now is being patient and being an advocate.” A bank administrator reflected that the study/advocacy process caused him to take more time now with his team at work, letting them find their own answers to problems. “Now, I am less of a manager and more of a coach.” One meeting facilitator said, “I was leading lots of conversations. I felt empowered.” A study committee chair said he developed listening skills and discovered how to draw people out to speak what’s on their mind. “I learned a lot—to be accommodating to everybody.” One participant confirmed that Community Council’s process also developed leadership skills and noted that listening is “the first stage of leadership.”
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