In our community there exists an organization that encourages the growth and development of our neighbors. That organization is the Highlands Coalition, Inc (HICO). HICO started out about three years ago as a loose collaboration of various neighborhood organizations.
A few months ago members got together with a lawyer, Mari McKeon, to formally incorporate as a 503 non-profit corporation. This legal status gives HICO greater flexibility in pursuing funding and recognition as a serious entity.
This attempt at recognition as professional organization was however fraught with unintentional missteps. Different group members had different objectives. Stopping the formation of a charter school, promoting open spaces, and fighting foreclosures were pet projects of individual members. One area where all the members came together though was the development of the Ford International Garden. A growing partnership between HICO and Ford Elementary school blossomed just like the flowers on the vegetable plants in the garden.
The young students reaped the rewards of this bountiful harvest. Still to come, future crops will yield priceless benefits to hungry community, starving to have their existence recognized and validated. More to come later.
No comments:
Post a Comment