The 2017 Neighborhood Cafés
In addition to the World Cafés, there is more than twenty years of data supporting the outcomes of the Cafés. This data includes information stored in PlanNet, as well as annual reports provided by neighborhood organizations to the City.
The following is a summary of the outcomes of the Neighborhood Cafés, with supporting examples.
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"Tell me more about the Neighborhood Cafés"
The Neighborhood Cafés were funded by the MInneapolis City Council, and planned in partnership with neighborhood organizations, cultural organizations, and the Neighborhood and Community Engagement Commission.
Almost 40 volunteers participated in a three-day workshop on the Art of Hosting Conversations that Matter and the World-Café process. Dozens more helped plan, organize and arrange food and set up for the meetings. More than 500 residents participated, spending at least two hours talking with their neighbors about the work of neighborhood organizations.
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“Improving social and physical environment of neighborhood”
Neighborhood organization activities improve the social and physical environment of their neighborhood, including neighborhood safety, youth services, responding to local development and housing issues, community beautification and immigrant services.
According to NCR’s 2017 annual report on neighborhood organization programs, 88% of neighborhoods reported holding meetings to gather input for neighborhood initiatives. And historically, neighborhood organizations have turned that input into real outcomes.
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“Serve as a central hub”
Neighborhood organizations serve as a community resource hub, with the ability to act as a clearinghouse of information and pointing residents to resources and services. For example, 67% of neighborhoods report that they distribute a newsletter to all households in their area, while 97% of neighborhood organizations share City of Minneapolis news on their web-sites and via email, social media.
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“Empower, engage, enrich”
Many comments identified a role for neighborhood organizations in empowering and advocating for residents. For example, many comments noted their role in shaping public policy or advocating for community interests. Several comments referenced the importance of reaching out to and advocating for under-represented populations. -
“Interface between residents & City departments”
Neighborhood organizations serve as an important conduit between residents and the City, and help residents influence policy.
In 2017, 73% of neighborhood organizations reported holding meetings to gather input for a specific City of Minneapolis project or effort.
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“Sense of place”
Neighborhood organizations plan an important role in building community, establishing relationships and easing community tensions, as well as place-making. 96% of neighborhoods organize events such as Art Fairs, Open Streets, Seasonal Festivals, etc.
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“Forum for community conversations”
Many comments also indicated role of neighborhood organization in providing a community forum for residents to talk about community issues.
In 2017, 88% of neighborhood organizations reported providing time at board meetings for community members and stakeholders to ask questions or raise issues, while 85% reported that they distribute meeting notices and agendas prior to meetings. Many neighborhood organizations routinely host culturally specific events or issue-oriented events to bring people together around community issues.
