Community The Power to Change

09 It appears that in recent years, we have succeeded in creating a language of community and sustainability, establishing community initiatives, and making changes in the Ramat Hanadiv area, on various levels. During this time, community and environmental leadership was developed, which has become increasingly more significant. It is more salient at the crossroads where decision making and regional planning processes meet. It has an impact not only on a neighborhood level but also on a municipal and regional level. The authorities have gained active partners from among the residents who help promote an agenda of quality of life and a connection to the place and its heritage. Ramat Hanadiv is gradually transferring its role as a mediator between the residents and the authorities to local leadership and designated officials who are responsible for community and sustainability issues at various authorities.

Looking Ahead

It would be a mistake, however, to think that it is possible to completely relinquish Ramat Hanadiv’s involvement. Active residents need support in order to maintain their passion to take action. They need professional, and even emotional support so they can continue to be active over time. Additionally, the circles of activity must be expanded so that more and more residents become involved. A variety of opinions and talents will enable mutual support and continued growth. There needs to be an awareness of changes at the local authorities, especially following elections, to ensure that the communal– environmental agenda is not eliminated and that officials receive the professional support they need, to promote the issues themselves. Activity is an outcome of the needs that arise in the field. Consequently, it is important to ensure that once in a reasonable period of time, mapping and assessment of needs are conducted with consideration to both the residents and officials.

An idea that we formulated was to establish municipal sustainability centres to serve as a “home” for entrepreneurs – a meeting place and centre for joint activity and for promoting sustainability. Will connections between the different centres be created on a regional level in the future? Or, will a different idea perhaps arise? Time will tell.

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