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What, exactly, do you do for the community?
We are a part of
city government
that offers a unique spectrum of initiatives that inspire
and support community participation, citizen action, and
responsive municipal government. More than 4,000 citizens
annually take up its challenge to shape municipal plans and
policies, allocate city resources, resolve conflicts, heal
the damage caused by crime, and revitalize neighborhoods.
More than merely opening the doors of city government,
CCAN’s initiatives involve systematic outreach to
underrepresented groups—including families living in
poverty, people of color, newly resettled refugees, and
immigrants—as well as strategies that strengthen social
networks and empower citizens.
Are you a part of city government?
Yes, the
Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) is part of the
City of Burlington. CCAN is a division of CEDO.
How are you funded?
CCAN receives very little city money. Most of CCAN's programs and
services are funded through local, state and federal grants,
private donations and fees.
How do I get involved?
We are always happy to help people find ways to get
involved in their community. If you are interested in
volunteering, you can find a list of opportunities here. If
you would like to discuss more specific ways to get
involved, click
here.
Where are you located?
We are located at 125 College Street, second floor, in
downtown Burlington.
What is AmeriCorps*VISTA?
AmeriCorps*VISTA is the national service program designed
specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in
Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the
AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on
the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for
more than 40 years. For more information about
AmeriCorps*VISTA nationally, visit
www.americorps.gov.
What do A*VISTAs do?
A*VISTA members commit to serve full-time for one year at a
non-profit organization, public school, library, or city
departments. Members work to fight illiteracy, improve
health services, work with refugee populations, strengthen
community groups, and much more. To learn more, or to check
out local A*VISTA positions that fit your interests, check
out
http://www.cedoburlington.org/neighborhoods/vista/prospective_members.htm.
How can I talk to city council members?
Visit
www.ci.burlington.vt.us/citycouncil/ for contact
information.
What is an NPA?
Neighborhood Planning Assemblies
(NPAs) are grassroots, neighborhood organizations that were
established in each of Burlington’s seven Wards to encourage
citizen participation in City government. Working as
neighborhood advocacy groups, Neighborhood Planning
Assemblies help improve communication between the citizens
of Burlington and City government through regular meetings
scheduled in each Ward.
When and where do the Neighborhood Planning Assemblies
(NPA’s) meet? How can I contact an
NPA Steering Committee Member?
The steering committees of each ward are comprised of
volunteers. To find out who's serving on the steering
committee now and details on the next meeting, click
here.
What can I do about potholes on my street?
The City's
Department of Public Works manages street maintenance.
It is best to call them at 863-9094 to file a request. Get
your neighbors to call, too, since it's a complaint-based
system. The more calls the better. If you want help
organizing your neighbors around potholes, or something
else, that is something we can can help with!
Who should I contact for the
Restorative Justice
Panels?
Jocelyn Juaire (865-7589) is the Restorative Justice Program
Specialist. She will be happy to answer any questions you
have about restorative justice or the alternative justice
program.
What can I do about
disruptive neighbors?
In Burlington many of the houses are very close together. It
is not uncommon for neighbors to intrude upon the peaceful
enjoyment of your own living space. There are several things
you can do to prevent neighbor disputes. The first step is
to meet your neighbors and introduce yourself in a
neighborly way. Sometimes people don’t know they are being
disruptive so it is important to tell them when something is
affecting you. When people know each other it is easier to
bring up the more difficult issues that can arise. Sometimes
people simply need to be reminded of the environment so they
can be more respectful of neighbors. If you need more
assistance, the Community Support Program helps people think
through the problem of disruptive neighbors and offers
strategies and options for next steps. Brooke Hadwen
(540-2393) is a great person to contact for more
information about this.
I can't shovel the snow on my walk. How can I get help
with that?
Operation Snow Shovel is a program recruits volunteers
to shovel out front walkways for people who are elderly or
disabled. It is intended to ensure that everyone has a safe
exit route, in case of emergency. |
