You can help maintain, enhance our parks
Published 5:39 pm Wednesday, March 13, 2013
In response to “Let’s consider camera’s in our parks” (Auburn Reporter, March 1), I appreciate Linda Howard’s concerns in regards to keeping our parks clean, healthy and honored.
I, too, am an active participant in cleaning up litter and can relate to Linda’s frustration. While I agree that some of our community members don’t seem to value our public space in the same way I do, I fail to see the benefit in name-calling or labeling any perceived group of individuals as “punks.” This is the type of attitude that may create separation and thwart the goal of an “All Inclusive Community.”
As an alternative to installing cameras I would like to offer some “low-tech” ideas that can be applied by anyone to achieve our collective need. I encourage all citizens to practice simple community-building skills who can engage a sense of pride and ownership of our shared spaces.
Know your neighbors. I recommend that we look up and greet each other when walking or passing by. Engaged, aware citizens acquire stronger personal autonomy by being present and active in the spaces they use. Say “hello” and look people in the eyes. Treat them with kindness and respect.
Seek to understand. Everyone has differing needs and ideals. Most of us have a need for a clean park, but not all of us are privileged to have time to pick up litter or even see it as a problem. Maintaining a compassionate attitude and leading by example can be an engaging method in encouraging cooperation.
Ask for help. Bringing a few extra garbage bags with you and handing them out is easy. Be bold and share your goals with all people you greet, not just those who are receptive.
Share your skills. Bring what you have to the community table. Perhaps a neighborhood fundraiser for more garbage/recycling cans; make durable signs that promote your cause; organize monthly work parties for extra maintenance; create a park watch network to help report concerning activities; advocate for a park bulletin board to post community information; create an art wall for graffiti artists; organize a tree planting or garner support from existing environmental groups. What can you offer?
Segregation and blame are destructive tools that create obstacles to solutions. Let us ignite a powerful sense of belonging by integrating all members of the community. We the people have the power to accomplish this through thoughtful action and true intention.
Look up “44 Ways to Build Community” on the web for more ideas.
– Cecily Wolff
