Systems and policies have evolved over time in ways that far too often marginalize participation by the communities those entities and structures are trying to serve. Vitalyst has just released two reports regarding efforts to explore constructive ways forward. One reports from the front lines of South Phoenix’s potential transit expansion. The other focuses on the results of centering the people of Maryvale and South Phoenix who are closest to the issues that impact their daily health.

• Investing in Resident Leadership: Understanding the Ripple Effect of Impact in South Phoenix closely follows the story of Remain. Reclaim. Reimagine. (RRR). RRR is a collective of residents concentrating on prioritizing resident inclusion in decision-making, as well as preventing potential displacement by promoting Equitable Transit-Oriented Development as Phoenix develops an extension of the light-rail system into the area.
• Civic Participation Beyond Voting: Seeding Civic Participation Through Research provides insights into Vitalyst’s recent Maryvale and South Phoenix-based investment in Community Based Participatory Research (CBPAR). The Spark Brief summarizes progress-to-date, next steps and the realized impacts of CBPAR.

It’s this simple: community health isn’t possible without tapping the strengths and nourishing the roots of civic participation. Learn more about ways you can develop civic participation and resident leadership by downloading both publications today.