Earlier this month, Northwest Neighbors Village presented at the Village to Village Network conference. This annual event is an opportunity for Villages nationwide to come together to share best practices and network. I had the pleasure of participating on a multi-Village panel discussing our efforts to address equity and inclusion.
Villages across the country are exploring ways to attract members and volunteers that reflect the diversity of their community. It was interesting to hear colleagues share how strategic partnerships, adjustments to membership fees, and community outreach have been instrumental to making Village membership more accessible and inclusive. It was also eye opening to reflect on how NNV’s equity-focused work has evolved over the years. Here’s a quick snapshot:
These small steps are encouraging, and we still have more to do. We encourage you to get involved. To learn more, visit our website or contact the office at info@nnvdc.org or 202-935-6060.
I was not the only NNV representative to present at the conference. Acting in her role as president of the DC Villages Collaborative’s Collaboration Council, NNV Vice President Morgan Gopnik participated on a panel on collaborative partnerships. Morgan addressed how this important collaboration strengthens our ability to support NNV members, while also expanding Village resources both for our members and for others across the city. Click here to learn more.
Through a centrally-coordinated, local network of screened volunteers and vetted professional providers, Northwest Neighbors Village offers its members transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping assistance, home repairs and handyman help, computer and technology assistance, access to social and cultural activities and more.