A Day of Belonging: ABCD Symposium 2023
The 5th annual Asset Based Community Development Symposium is a free, full-day celebration on the theme of belonging. There will be community art, networking, food, activities, and so much more! We’re especially excited to welcome keynote speaker Jon Massimi, and we look forward to hearing your stories as well.
We encourage community members to gather and participate in this amazing event as we focus on both our individual and community gifts and assets. Together we can build a stronger community where all feel like they belong.
Register by clicking HERE.
All About ABCD
What is ABCD and how does it effect the community? Read all about it below!
What is ABCD?
ABCD stands for Asset Based Community Development.
Gifts.
Each person has their own set of strengths and passions. These strengths and passions are called their gifts. Your gift can be difficult to recognize, but we all have one!
Community.
ABCD, simply put, is an approach focused on community building and development.
Your Gift.
Not sure what your gift is?
Tip: If you had to teach one person or a group of people something what would it be? Why?
The People.
This approach is centred around the people within the community. The idea here is that the people make the community.
Connecting.
Connecting these gifts to other people, groups, and organizations is the main part of this process. This step supports the development of the community.
What to Expect!
Jonathan Massimi
Our keynote speaker Jon Massimi will be speaking twice (morning and evening) as well as engaging with the community throughout the day. He has close to 20 years of experience in community development, is well-versed in ABCD, and has studied with John McKnight.
Stories of Belonging
This year's event has a heavy focus on storytelling whether through narration, art, writing, song, or dance. Sharing stories is important because it is a way to teach, connect, and inspire people while both maintaining and developing culture.
Meals & Transportation
Please let us know if you'll be eating with us and if you have any dietary restrictions. We will also be offering transportation from a location to be determined down to the pavilion at the park. Please let us know what you require when you register.