by Greg Jackson
There are four Mission Statements in the United Neighborhoods Neighborhood Council’s (UNNC) bylaws and in this article, I will look at each statement and reflect on my practices to consider if I have implemented actions supporting the mission of UNNC. I hope that as you read this, you’ll be inspired to reflect on ways you can help carry forward UNNC’s mission as well.
THE UNITED NEIGHBORHOODS OF THE HISTORIC ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, WEST ADAMS, AND JEFFERSON PARK COMMUNITIES NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL (UNNC).
Mission Statement #1
To empower and bring together a diverse community to maintain and improve Stakeholder quality of life;
How have I brought together a diverse community to the UNNC community? Have I informed my neighbors about UNNC and our current projects? Have I shared our website, our Zoom links and asked them to participate and provide their input? Have I invited individuals who do not look like me, that do not come from the same social circles? Have I invited them to participate in UNNC meetings and activities?
Mission Statement #2
To work, in cooperation, with the necessary agencies toward the protection and improvement of our area, effectively addressing the needs and concerns as identified by our community;
As a member of the UNNC board, do I know the agencies that address issues related to my community? Do I have a positive, cooperative working relationship with them? Have I set supportive and regular communication? Have I established and understand protocols of communication and their job requirements in support of our community efforts?
Mission Statement #3
To provide an inclusive open forum for public discussion of issues concerning City governance, the needs of this Council, the delivery of City services to this Council, and on matters of a Citywide nature;
When individuals attend our meetings and when my fellow board members attend meetings, do they ‘feel’ that I am listening to them? Do I affirm what they have shared? Do I give them adequate time to share their thoughts, issues, and concerns? Do I make a habit of summarizing their points before I go on to the next issue? Are members of the public attending our board meeting and providing input on matters? Have I informed them about issues on the agenda and told them that their thoughts are important?
Mission Statement #4
To advise the City of Los Angeles on issues concerning City governance, the needs of this Council, the delivery of City services to this Council, and on matters of a citywide nature.
Am I actively participating in an advisory mode to the city by participating in the Community Impact Statement (CIS) process? Do I understand how the CIS process works? Do I discuss with my fellow board members and community members the services that we collectively want the city to address?
As I reviewed the four mission statements and reflected on my practices, I see some things that I am doing well, some that need improvement and others that require focused attention. I hope that your time of reflection was productive for you as well.
