WHAT IS THE EMPOWERMENT CONGRESS WEST AREA NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL?
* An organization composed of neighborhood
development and standing councils
* A citizen participation vehicle formed to address and
develop solutions to local, district and city-wide
issues.
* A constituent-based, educated and mobilization program
organized to:
engage residents in efforts to create safer, healthier
environments
educate constituents to make informed decisions
regarding the condition of their neighborhoods; and
empower individuals to make positive change in their
communities.
The Empowerment Congress was established in January 1992 by Councilman Mark Ridley-Thomas as the "Campaign for a New Eighth District". Its goal was to increase the quality of life for residents of the Eighth Council District Of Los Angeles.
The key feature of the "Campaign for a New Eighth District" was the institution of neighborhood development councils as vehicles for people who live and work in the district to shape the policies and decisions which affect their lives.
The Empowerment Congress conducts an annual meeting to bring together constituents and the councils with policy-makers, decision-makers, advisors, supporters and other interested parties to address district and citywide issues and share experiences, plans and accomplishments.
NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCILS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
THE WEST AREA NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL ORGANIZATION
WHO MAKES UP THE EMPOWERMENT CONGRESS?
Individules
Neighborhood Associations and Block Clubs
Groups in Action
Schools
Churches
Clubs
Businesses
Property Owners
Community-based Organizations
HOW DOES THE WEST AREA EMPOWERMENT CONGRESS
REPRESENT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD?
Through Neighborhoods identified within our geographical areas.
Through Standing Councils; Neighborhood Development, Youth Advocacy, Community Safety, Community Standards, Economic Development and Senior Advocacy.
Encourages relationships between a broad cross section of concerned community members
Maintains open communication elected officials and policy makers.