17th Ward Coalition

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The 17th Ward Coalition is a collaborative partnership between the Gert Town, Hollygrove, and Hollygrove-Dixon communities. Anchored by Together Gert Town, the Hollygrove Neighbors Association, and the Hollygrove-Dixon Neighborhood Association, the coalition brings residents and neighborhood organizations together to strengthen our collective voice and capacity.

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Through this partnership, the three neighborhoods work side-by-side to share lessons learned, exchange resources, and grow our impact by collaborating across community lines. Our work is guided by a shared Memorandum of Understanding that outlines how we coordinate, support one another, and make decisions together.

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A key focus of the coalition is preparing our neighborhoods for the future. Together, we are developing a community-driven risk management assessment and climate change adaptation plan that reflects the real experiences, priorities, and knowledge of residents. Rather than relying solely on outside experts, the coalition centers community members as the lead experts in understanding local challenges and shaping solutions.

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As part of this effort, each neighborhood will establish a five-member Community Action Board (CAB) made up of local residents. These boards will help guide planning, gather input from neighbors, and ensure that community perspectives remain at the center of the work. Members of the Community Action Boards will receive a small stipend in recognition of their time, leadership, and participation.

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The Community Action Boards are also designed to increase community capacity and leadership. CAB members will participate in learning sessions focused on identifying community assets, green infrastructure, and climate resilience strategies, while also building skills in community engagement and organizing. Through this process, residents will explore different community-led models and approaches to neighborhood development.

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By participating in the CAB, community members will tap into their own agency and leadership, strengthening their ability to advocate for neighborhood priorities and solutions. This investment in resident leadership helps ensure that the knowledge, power, and decision-making remain rooted in the community.

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By working together across the 17th Ward, our neighborhoods are building stronger relationships, increasing our collective resources, and ensuring that the voices of residents lead the way in planning for a safer and more resilient future.