Local Governments and Non-Profits: Building Community Through Partnership

Photo by Crissy Pascual, Argus-Courier (Oct. 20, 2016) <p>NBC News recently aired a short feel-good story during its Nightly News broadcast about a code enforcement officer working for the City of Petaluma, California. Joe Garcia had received multiple complaints about a dilapidated home surrounded by overgrown weeds. Clearly the home was out of compliance, and so the natural course of action would be a warning and fine. But that’s not what happened. What happened instead is an example not only of decency and caring, but of the power within communities to build community and improve quality of life through partnerships. In this case, Joe learned about the homeowner, WWII vet Albert Pericou. He found out that Mr. Pericou lacked the resources and physical ability to keep up with his property. Joe realized that something could be done about it. He knew about a non-profit organization called Rebuilding Together and made a connection between Mr. Pericou and the organization. Before long, community volunteers, including Joe Garcia, with the help of a $10,000 donation by Home Depot, were giving Mr. Pericou’s home and yard a makeover.</p> <p></p> <p>The result of course goes well beyond a nicer-looking (and compliant) property in Petaluma. Mr. Pericou had new friends and improved quality of life. The neighborhood was improved. And the social fabric of the community became just a little bit stronger. This is a great story about building community. You can read about it here and also watch the short NBC News feature here.</p> <p>This is a great story of community partnership. You have a national [...]</p>