CPDC’s Resident Engagement Efforts Lead to Successful Community Event at Wardman Court

By Tiffani Berry, Wardman Court Resident Services Manager

On August 3, 2013, residents of Wardman Court hosted the “Clifton Street Community Gathering,” a block party that served to both connect property residents with each other and present the broader community with an opportunity to witness resident leadership in action.

The planning

In April 2013, I hosted the “Best Summer Ideas Contest.”  The contest was created to identify the best resident-proposed idea that would effectively engage those within the community.  Following a vote, the block party emerged as the winning idea.  Residents took the lead in organizing what they later named the “Clifton Street Community Gathering.”  Velle Perkins, CPDC Resident Resource Ambassador, took the lead in planning the event and facilitating regular meetings.  Perkins was supported by a larger committee consisting of the following residents: Anthony Perkins, Tynisha Ellison, Prathene Ellison, Timothy Taylor, and Michael Johnson.

The outcome

On the day of the event, Clifton Street was filled with music, dancing, laughter, and the smiling faces of nearly 200 community members that came out to support.  The residents, 81 of whom were in attendance, prepared a buffet consisting of chicken, fish, hamburgers, hotdogs, green beans, and desserts.  In addition to food and music, residents lead informal discussions to collect ideas for continued improvements in the community.  All in attendance commented on how grateful they were to witness what can happen when people come together to create a safe and thriving community.  CPDC and communities together.  Growing and Thriving.

CPDC would like to thank committee members, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the first “Clifton Street Community Gathering!”  A special thanks goes to Ward One Councilmember Jim Graham for his monetary contribution.