Initiatives Seek to Reduce Poverty in NW Michigan
The Traverse Bay Poverty Reduction Initiative (PRI) is a community-driven, collaborative effort to reduce poverty in the Traverse Bay region. The program was born out of the Poverty Summit, held in February 2004, in which 225 area residents joined together to address the issue of poverty in our area. Poverty Reduction Initiative consists of representatives from local businesses, public and government agencies, and concerned citizens. Working subcommittees focus on five strategic directions: Navigators, Mentoring, Education, Advocacy, and Communications. TraverseBayPRI.org
"A virtual village of neighbors helping neighbors; creating pathways to opportunities and solutions."
Progress Village is a group of neighbors who want to play an active role in their own community's response to poverty by helping others understand the reality and challenges of living in the crisis of poverty. ProgressVillage.org
The Networks Northwest team did a great job to help the City of Charlevoix and Charlevoix Township collaborate in addressing housing challenges in our community. They facilitated dialogue with Planning Commissioners, community stakeholders, and municipal officials to develop a plan for cohesive zoning in areas of growth for our two governments. Further, they were able to pinpoint the challenges in each unit and propose changes that would be beneficial all around. Together, we believe we'll be better prepared for housing developments and job growth in our region. We look forward to working with them on future projects!
- Mark Haydlauff, City Manager, Charlevoix