Building begins on Common Ground

What do a retired social worker, a real estate agent, the founder of a moms and babies non-profit, and a North Van newcomer have in common? Quite a lot, actually!

These people were among those who came to Common Ground on Saturday, June 20, and began to explore the idea of building neighbour-helping-neighbour network centred in Lynn Valley. While backgrounds varied, everyone shared the desire to make a positive difference in their communities and to learn how to rally the power of our combined networks when an individual or family suddenly finds themselves in the midst of a challenging time.

Participation in Common Ground is "ad hoc" - by signing up to be part of the network, no one is committed to hours of labour (or meetings) they may not always have time for. But when the word goes out that help is needed, those Common Ground members who are available can jump in to help - and perhaps bring a friend or two with them. Common Ground's motto is "we lend a hand, when we can" and Brenda Stenson, admin lead on the organizing team, is busy building the communications vehicle that will keep people in touch and working effectively.

Other topics discussed on Saturday included the likelihood of encountering needs that range from acute crises to long-term, chronic problems. It was acknowledged that Common Ground cannot be everything to everyone, and part of its role may be to point people to already-existing organizations and supports such as the United Way 811 website of resources.

There was a good deal of enthusiasm in the room for Common Ground members pooling their experience, skills and practical supports and for harnessing the power of their collective networks - whether that meant occasionally pulling in a family member who has a pickup truck, or spreading the word in their local moms' group or workplace.

If you'd like to be kept abreast of Common Ground's next steps, please talk to Peggy or send your contact information to Brenda Stenson. Thank you to all for your support of this community initiative - it is great to be working together with other people in our neighbourhood!