Often communities hold wisdom that is not fully understood, or valued, by corporate investors or local governments. Tapping into that community wisdom - giving voice to local citizens – is positive for communities. And, a better understanding of community wisdom can also help others – corporate investors and political leaders – make smarter choices.
How can you tap into community wisdom? How do you hear the voice of local citizens? How do you support and enable local leadership?
Integrity Bridges Inc. believes that community wisdom is one of the world’s greatest untapped resources. When corporate managers investing in a community understand local priorities, they make better decisions, manage risks more effectively and see new opportunities. When government leaders rely on local wisdom and points of view, there is critical buy-in on political strategy.
Integrity Bridges supports and champions many initiatives to tap into community wisdom. For example:
In Fort McMurray Alberta, home to Canada’s oilsands development, public dialogue seems to break down along two lines: resource vs. place. As a resource, we talk of jobs, trickle-down economics, stronger tax bases, competitiveness, relative options, training, technology, and innovation. As a place, we focus on the physical and human environment, Aboriginals, capacity (voice), relationships, and ask if we are ethical – are we living good lives? Bridging the space between focus on resource and place is challenging. But it is critical if we want to support the development of a community that can have an ethical response.
As well, Integrity Bridges Inc. works to support others, like Bridges Social Development, to tap into local wisdom of youth leaders in Yemen, India and Aboriginal Canada; visit the Unveiling Youth Potential website to learn more.