Waseca Students Lead

What a great example the sixth graders of Waseca set for the rest of the community in the Kid’s Khronicle . They identified community assets, looked at the pros and cons of the current situation, analyzed problems, suggested solutions, analyzed those solutions and made thoughtful recommendations. These are textbook community development skills and activities that stand up to the criteria established by the Community Development Society International. I was amazed by the students ability to articulate values, clarify visions, reflect on issues and critically think through recommendations. Why am I as the staff person for the Waseca Area Foundation so interested in what they have to say? Because community foundations are formed on the assumption that residents are best suited to identify, prioritize and meet the needs and opportunities for the community. A community foundation governing board has a responsibility to apply the foundation’s resources to the community’s greatest needs and opportunities. Even though the board is structured to represent the entire community, broad based citizen input regarding prioritizing community needs and opportunities is welcomed and valued as the Foundation sets its funding priorities. Way to go Sixth Graders!