THANK YOU FROM...
The city of fort Wayne’s department of neighborhoods is grateful for the support of our Inspire Neighborhoods Conference sponsors...
LEAD SPONSOR ACCELERATOR-LEVEL
ACTIVATOR-LEVEL SPONSORS
EQUIPPER-LEVEL SPONSOR
SUSTAINER-LEVEL
PARTNER-LEVEL
We would also like to extenda special thanks to the following organizations forsupporting Department of Neighborhoods initiatives.
WELCOME AMBREAKOUTS
PMWORKSHOPS
AWARDSDINNER
ElectricWorksCampus I FortWayne,IN
September 13, 2024
8:00 am 7:00 pm
CityofFortWayneMayor’sOffice
Mayor, Sharon Tucker
Deputy Mayor, Karl Bandemer
FortWayneCityCouncil
President, Thomas Freistroffer
Martin Bender, At Large
Michelle Chambers, At Large
Paul Ensley, District 1
Russ Jehl, District 2
Nathan Hartman, District 3
Dr. Scott Meyers, District 4
Geoff Paddock, District 5
Rohli Booker, District 6
CommunityDevelopmentDivision
Director, Jonathan Leist
DepartmentofNeighborhoods
Dan Baisden
Réna Bradley
Bernadette Fellows
Megan Grable
Michael Terronez
2024InspireConferenceCommittee: Chair, Réna Bradley
Megan Butler
Elizabeth Lewis
Cinthia Loera
Elizabeth Smith
Michael Terronez
FACILITY&CAMPUSMAPS
BUILDING19:FORUM&UPPERLEVEL(UL)
BUILDING
19:LOWERLEVEL (LL)
TheForum (Vendors & Networking)
Conference/Vendors/ Sessions
GE Club: Lunch/ Plenary
Vendor& Special Accommodations Parking*
and
DearNeighborhoodAdvocates:
Thank you for attending the second annual 2024 Inspire! Neighborhood Conference. First time attendees, I hope you’re inspired to return every year. And returning attendees, I’m so happy you’re back for fresh insights. We’re committed to providing an enhanced quality of life for all residents. We encourage you to work with your neighbors, lean into your strengths, and further shape the identity of your neighborhood. We will do everything we can to help!
There’s never been a better time to live in Fort Wayne. We’re building an award-winning community that offers everyone the opportunity to achieve their full potential.We’ve been recognized as an All-America City four times, named the 8th best run city in the country, the fastest growing large Midwest city and we’re in the top 20 for the best place to live in the country. Those recognitions are achieved because of people just like you who care about our community and are willing to learn ways to make it better, and share your wonderful ideas with us.
My administration is committed to meeting the needs of residents as we grow and prosper as a city. Since 2014, the City has invested more than $340 million in neighborhood infrastructure enhancements. And this year, we’ve planned a record investment of $48.9 million, which includes $37.5 million for streets/roads/bridges, $9.3 million for sidewalks and alleys, and $2.1 million for trails.
We will never forget that what truly makes Fort Wayne special is the people.
Thank you, and enjoy the conference.
Sincerely,
MayorSharonTucker
DIVISIONDIRECTORLETTER
Welcomeneighborhoodleaders andresidents:
We are so thankful that you could take the time to join us for the 2024 Inspire! Neighborhood Conference. We greatly value the contributions of our neighborhood leaders to community development, and we welcome all voices to the table to discuss how to improve our community, one neighborhood at a time.
In Community Development, we work closely with community members to create community plans, enhance economic opportunities, fortify neighborhoods, and facilitate quality growth and development. This effort is undertaken within five key departments: Neighborhoods, Redevelopment, Office of Housing and Neighborhood Services, Planning and Policy, and Neighborhood Code Compliance.
The Department of Neighborhoods was formed in January 2022 and renamed in 2024 (it was originally called the Neighborhood Planning and Activation Workgroup) and is dedicated to supporting and revitalizing Fort Wayne's neighborhoods. In just over two years, they have created a more accessible Neighborhood Improvement Grant program and awarded a record number of grants to neighborhoods. They also launched several new neighborhood plans, including Packard 2030, Historic Northeast 2035, Northwest Neighborhoods 2035, and a renewed vision for East Central. Their efforts have included supporting neighborhood associations, such as Harvester, Broad River, Hamilton, East Central, and developing projects to empower local leaders in grant writing, civic engagement, and governance. Their commitment is evident in their work organizing and attending over 400 meetings with neighborhood leaders this past year.
Thank you for joining us on this journey of Neighborhood Activation, where we learn how to best work with one another, how to lean into our strengths, and how to make sure we have the resources to take care of ourselves and each other. When we commit to these ideas as a community, our associations will thrive, personal bonds will strengthen, and our neighborhoods will flourish.
Sincerely,
JonathanLeist,CommunityDevelopmentDivisionDirector
Photo Credit: Jubbar Jefferson,of Peace of Love Photography www.tattedteez.wixsite.com/peaceoflovephotograp
Photo Description: Work hard play hard- At Reservoir Park Basketball Court, Amish players and local family play great in basketball tournament
BREAKOUT SESSIONS I 9:10
PLANNINGSESSION:PADDOCK
COMPARING HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATIONS (HOAS) AND NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS: DISTINCTIONS, CITY RESOURCES & LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
In this session, facilitators will compare Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Neighborhood Associations, focusing on their distinctions, the resources available from city government, and the legal implications of each. They will gain insights into the structure, governance, and purpose of each type of association, and learn what types of municipal support each can leverage to improve their community.
ACTIVATIONSESSION: CRAWFORD
FUNDRAISING101:SEEKINGGRANTS&
In Fundraising 101: Seeking Grants & Sponsorships, participants will learn the basics of finding and applying for grants and getting sponsorships. Facilitators will share simple tips and strategies to help you write successful proposals and build strong relationships with funders. This session is perfect for anyone looking to learn the basics of the fundraising process.
PLANNINGSESSION:HINES HISTORICHOMES,DISTRICTS,AND RESTORATION
Join us for a session on Historic Homes, Districts, and Restoration. Learn about restoring old homes, preserving historic neighborhoods, and the importance of keeping these treasures alive. We'll share practical tips and insights into the benefits of historic preservation.
COLLABORATIONSESSION: STADIUM INNOVATIVEHOUSING
In this session, facilitators will explore various attainable home structures, focusing on costeffective building methods, materials, and efficient construction techniques. Emphasis will be on optimizing attainability, maintaining quality, and ensuring energy efficiency. Attendees will also learn innovative approaches for infill lots to maximize space and support community development.
Daniel Baisden Joshua Burkhart
Nate Lefever Karen Richards Creager Smith
Monica Chamberlain
JT King Joe LeMark Scott Shall
Breck Crandall Dwayne Borkholder
BREAKOUT SESSIONS I 10:10
PLANNINGSESSION:STADIUM
FAIRHOUSINGINACTION:NH’DASSOCIATIONS’ RESPONSIBILITIES&BESTPRACTICES
This training program is designed to empower neighborhood leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to create truly inclusive communities. By understanding and following both local and federal fair housing laws, neighborhood leaders can ensure that their communities are welcoming and accessible to everyone.
COLLABORATIONSESSION: PADDOCK
FUNDINGOPPORTUNITIES-GRANTSFOR NEIGHBORHOODS
ACTIVATIONSESSION:HINES SOLARFORALLANDENERGYREBATEPROGRAMS
Explore how solar energy and more sustainable homes can be made accessible through innovative programs and incentives. This session will delve into an energy rebate program designed to promote the adoption of solar power and strategies for maximizing benefits for local communities. Join us to learn how to leverage these initiatives to reduce energy costs and contribute to a sustainable future .
Learn about funding opportunities for neighborhood associations and residents in this session. Speakers will showcase different grants and resources, explaining how to find and apply for them. Join this session for practical advice on securing money for community projects.
CONNECTIONSESSION: CRAWFORD
N’HDCOMMUNICATIONS&MARKETING
The "Neighborhood Communications & Marketing" breakout session will focus on strategies for effectively reaching residents with important information and engaging the community. Participants will learn how to use marketing techniques for recruitment and develop compelling social media content to enhance neighborhood communications. This session is ideal for those looking to strengthen community ties and increase participation through effective outreach.
OFFICEHOURS:FORUM
NEIGHBORHOODPLANNER&ATTORNEY
Conference office hours provide a dedicated time for attendees to ask questions, seek advice, and engage in discussions with local experts.
(See bios from previous sessions.)
Nikki Quintana Lakisha Woods
Sheila Curry–Campbell Jodi Leamon
Olivia Torres
Emily Gorman Tracy Hanlin Nathan Law
Beth Boatright Réna Bradley Bernadette Fellows
BREAKOUT SESSIONS I 11:10
PLANNINGSESSION:STADIUM
HOME&PUBLICSAFETY:WHOTOCALLWHEN
In the City of Fort Wayne lots of organizations– from neighborhood code to NIPSCO- help safeguard the health safety and welfare of our residents and their property. This breakout session well help you understand who to call when for home safety concerns in our City.
COLLABORATIONSESSION: CRAWFORD
BUILDINGBRIDGESACROSSGENERATIONS: FOSTERINGUNITYANDRESILIENCEINOUR COMMUNITIES
This session will inspire conference attendees by highlighting the significance of intergenerational connections in community resilience and unity. Through interactive discussions and practical strategies, attendees will gain valuable insights into bridging generational divides and promoting collaboration within their communities. By fostering empathy and understanding among attendees, the session will equip them with the tools to implement positive change and create a more inclusive environment for people of all ages.
ACTIVATIONSESSION:PADDOCK
TREEPLANTINGASNEIGHBORHOOD
ACTIVATION/WAYSTOENGAGERESIDENTS
WHILEPROMOTINGPUBLICHEALTHAND
Presenters will share why they love trees so much, what they are doing to promote a healthy urban canopy, and how neighborhood or community organizations can be a part of the effort. Attendees will receive detailed information and ideas about how to use tree planting initiatives to grow neighborhood capacity and inspire more neighbors to get involved. The content of this presentation will include a wealth of examples, ideas, and specific tools neighborhood associations or other communityoriented groups can use to plan and execute successful tree planting programs.
CONNECTIONSESSION:HINES RELATIONALPEACE
Neighboring is part of the solution to the isolation that we can all feel. This session will equip participants to look for, listen to, and live alongside neighbors who lack belonging in order to build more relational communities.
OFFICEHOURS:FORUM FUNDING&FUNDINGRESOURCEPROVIDERS
Conference office hours provide a dedicated time for attendees to ask questions, seek advice, and engage in discussions with local experts. (See bios from previous sessions.)
Jon Flickinger Joseph Hutter Mike Miller
Christian Beebe Chris Blauvelt
Kody Tinnel Derek Veit
Olivia
Sheri-Ann McLean Photo credit: Andrea Piacquadio
Eric Wood
SPEAKER BIOS I MORNINGSESSIONS
BERNADETTEFELLOWS
DEPARTMENTOFNEIGHBORHOODS
As the Department of Neighborhoods Community Engagement Planner, Bernadette develops and implements strategies for neighborhood plans, projects and grants, and focuses on equipping neighborhood associations with best practices in community engagement. Bernadette holds a Bachelor’s in Business and a Bachelor’s in Economics and Public Policy, both from Indiana University. Additionally, Bernadette is a Data and Public Policy Scholar from the University of Chicago.
BETHBOATRIGHT
ALLENCOUNTYPUBLICLIBRARY
Beth Boatright is the Director of Community Partnerships and Programs at Allen County Public Library. She's passionate about connecting people and organizations to each other and to resources that can help them thrive.
BRECKCRANDALL
THREESQUARED,INC I HOUM.
Breck Crandell, AIA, is a licensed architect with credentials in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Florida, and Arizona. A graduate of Lawrence Technological University's College of Architecture and Design, he began his career at Hobbs + Black Architects in Ann Arbor before moving to MBH Architects in San Francisco, where he worked on Apple and Target projects. Returning to Detroit, Breck earned his Master of Architecture at LTU, receiving a traveling fellowship for his international design work. In 2015, he co-founded Houm, focusing on affordable housing solutions. At Three Squared Inc., he leads projects utilizing shipping containers. Breck lives in Detroit with his wife Miriam and their dog, Tadpole
CHRISBLAUVELT
NEIGHBORHOODCODECOMPLIANCE
Born and raised in South Central Fort Wayne, Chris graduated from South Side High School and attended Manchester College before completing his education at IPFW in Fort Wayne. Chris has been a part of the City of Fort Wayne’s Neighborhood Code Compliance Department since 2011, first as a Code Compliance Officer, advancing to Supervisor and Field Administrator, and most recently became the Deputy Director in November 2022. Chris is a certified trainer for Code Compliance Officials, a member of the Lithium Ion Battery Task Force, and an acting member of the Joint Permitting Oversight Board. Chris is actively working with other communities to establish a Northern Indiana Code Compliance Association.
CHRISTIANBEEBE DEPARTMENTOFPLANNINGSERVICES
Christian Beebe has been with the Department of Planning Services for 18 years in a variety of roles. Currently, he is the Senior Land Use Planner with the Permits and Enforcement division; the division of DPS that focuses on critical items such as review and issuance of permits and compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
CREAGERSMITH
HISTORICPRESERVATION
Creager Smith, Historic Preservation Planner for the City of Fort Wayne, from resides in Fort Wayne with his wife Joan in a repurposed 1955 Volkswagen dealership. With over 50 years experience in history and preservation, Creager was immersed in the field from a young age due to his parents' involvement. He holds a BS in Historic Preservation from Southeast Missouri State University and an MS in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University. An automotive historian and expert in analyzing historic photos, Creager has worked at the Indiana State Historic Preservation Office and City of Fort Wayne for over 32 years, overseeing the Historic Preservation Commission and Certified Local Government program.
DANBAISDEN DEPARTMENTOFNEIGHBORHOODS
Dan, originally from a small East-Central Ohio community, spent over a decade in radio broadcasting before transitioning to urban planning. He earned degrees in Urban Sociology and Urban and Regional Planning from Arizona State University in 2019, followed by a Master’s in Community and Economic Development from Pennsylvania State University in 2022. With over 8 years of experience in local government across Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana, Dan now serves as the Department Head for the City of Fort Wayne’s Department of Neighborhoods.
DEREKVEIT FORTWAYNEPARKSANDRECREATION
With over 25 years of experience in arboriculture, Derek is a dedicated public servant and arborist committed to building a resilient community for future generations. When he's not discussing trees, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons often still talking trees.
SPEAKER BIOS I MORNINGSESSIONSCONT’D
DWAYNEBORKHOLDER
NEWENERGYHOMES
In 1999 a mutual friend introduced us to Dwayne and his family in Nappanee, Indiana. This innovator and businessman leads Borkholder Buildings and Supply, which has been engineering, designing, and supplying buildings since 1962. His company shipped containers of building materials to Belarus to help us introduce American-style post-frame church construction. He and his network of engineers and builders have been instrumental in helping us train locals and develop wood frame construction methods in Belarus, Ukraine, Russia and Argentina.
EMILYGORMAN
AARPINDIANA
Emily Gorman is the Director of Community Engagement for AARP Indiana. Based out of the AARP Indiana State Office in Indianapolis , Emily works to advocate for the needs of Hoosiers 50 plus. Incorporating our livable communities' initiatives into our local, state and federal advocacy and outreach work allows us to continually push and strive for communities that are more accessible, walkable, and livable for all. Emily's background is with the YMCA as a Program Director for over 10 years in both New York and Indianapolis.
ERICWOOD NEIGHBORLINK
Eric Wood, a Fort Wayne native, is dedicated to fostering a sense of community in his hometown. As the Executive Director of NeighborLink Fort Wayne, he focuses on connecting neighbors and cultivating a strong sense of belonging. Eric holds a B.S. in Student Ministry from Huntington University and is currently pursuing an MA at Western Theological Seminary.
JODILEAMON VOLUMOD
Jodi Leamon has a BA in Environmental Science from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, an MS in Biological Sciences from the University of Illinois, Chicago. She’s certified as an Envision Sustainability Professional by the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure. Jodi has a background in waste reduction and recycling. She is a site director for the local site of the nonprofit Food Rescue US. She currently works for City Utilities as Program Manager for the Utility Energy
and Sustainability Services team on the Sustaining Fort Wayne Initiative.
JOELEMARK VOLUMOD
Joe leads by example, focusing on listening to understand, identifying my team’s strengths, and leveraging their unique talents to drive business success. At Volumod, we’re more than a housing factory; we transform lives by creating innovative, efficient, and sustainable homes crafted by our team for the community. Our commitment extends beyond housing to actively support our community through initiatives like our Culture of Hope, Re-entry Program, and efforts towards attainable housing.
JONATHANFLICKINGER FORTWAYNEFIREDEPARTMENT
Assistant Chief Jonathan Flickinger has been with the Fort Wayne Fire Department since 2000, beginning as a Private at Station One before transitioning to a Captain in the Fire Prevention/ Code Enforcement division. In his current role as Assistant Chief of Community Risk Reduction, he oversees Education, Engineering, Economic Incentive, Enforcement, and Emergency Response. Jonathan collaborates with the EMS and Public Education teams to enhance operations and provide fire prevention education to the community. He also serves as the Public Information Officer, managing incident responses, communicating the FWFD's mission, and working with local news affiliates.
JOSEPHHUTTER ALLENCOUNTYBUILDING DEPARTMENT
With over 30 years in the construction trade, Joseph Hutter has cultivated extensive expertise across the industry. For nearly 3 years, he has served as the Building Commissioner, leveraging his deep knowledge and leadership skills. Joseph holds multiple licenses within the trades, reflecting his dedication to upholding high standards and ensuring quality in every project.
JOSHUABURKHARDT HUNT,SUEDHOFF,KARNEYLLP
Joshua Burkhardt is a partner in the Fort Wayne, Indiana office of Hunt Suedhoff Karney LLP, and helps clients plan, build and protect their businesses. He regularly advises individuals and businesses on several areas of law, including
SPEAKER BIOS I MORNINGSESSIONSCONT’D
acquisitions, asset purchase agreements, contracts, corporate formalities, dissolution, due diligence matters, financial issues, formation, management issues, succession planning and work out negotiations. He also handles estate planning, real estate, bankruptcy, and financial legal issues. In his free time, Joshua enjoys baseball, camping, fishing, reading and hiking.
JTKING ROYALDEVELOPMENTS
J.T. King, a Fort Wayne native, embodies the principle "Compliment or Complete, not compete." His journey began with crafting off-road brush firetrucks, igniting his passion for welding and fabrication. He later transitioned to home building, mastering various trades. Driven by a desire to make a difference, J.T. moved to Uganda, where he founded a water filtration company and cofounded The Hangout, a shipping container-based incubator for local businesses. Now leading Royal Developments, co-founded with his father, he addresses the housing crisis by collaborating with architects and builders to create attainable homes, showcasing his dedication to community and innovation.
KARENRICHARDS ARCHFORTWAYNE
Karen Richards has been the Interim Executive Director of ARCH, Inc. our local historic preservation organization since July 2024. She is an attorney and has volunteered with ARCH as a lecturer and tour guide for over 20 years. She has a BA in history from Northwestern University and has had a lifelong passion for history and historic preservation. She lives in Fort Wayne in a National Register neighborhood and is currently restoring a 1904 cottage in southern Alabama that is listed as part of a local historic district.
KODYTINNEL TREECANOPYGROWTHFUND
Kody, a lifelong Fort Wayne resident, has a growing passion for trees and is actively involved in various community organizations, including neighborhood associations, nonprofit boards, and public commissions. He is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne achieve its fullest potential in any way he can.
LAKISHAWOODS FORTWAYNEMETRO
Lakisha Woods is a Staff Attorney at the Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission, returning to the role in December 2023 after a year in private practice specializing in Employment Law. Previously, she served eleven years at the Commission as an Investigator and Senior Investigator. Lakisha is also an active member of the City of Fort Wayne Board of Zoning Appeals and Vincent Village. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, family time, and exploring new restaurants.
MIKEMILLER NIPSCO
Mike Miller’s career in public safety is marked by dedication and innovation. Joining NIPSCO in 2018, he led the development of the Natural Gas Safety Program for First Responders. With 33 years in the fire service, primarily at the Fort Wayne Fire Department, Mike advanced from Lieutenant to Assistant Chief, overseeing the Division of Training and Development. His passion for training extends to his role as an instructor for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and as the owner of his own safety business. The NIPSCO program has reached 258 fire departments and nearly 8,000 first responders, and is expanding to include police, Emergency Management Agencies, contractors, and local businesses.
MONICACHAMBERLAIN STILLWATERHOSPICE
Originally from Noble County, Monica Chamberlain is a nonprofit kind of a girl who wants to leave Northeast Indiana better than she found it and have a good time doing it. She loves to work as smart as possible to increase impact (and she loves to check stuff off of a to-do list) and more time for fun, learning about people and relationship building. Her career has spanned higher education, early education, economic development and healthcare. In her free time, she enjoys talking to strangers, convincing her friends to workout with her and cooking with and for family, friends and sometimes strangers.
NATELEFEVER HISTORICPRESERVATION
Nate Lefever, Historic Preservation Planner for the City of Fort Wayne, hails from Columbia City, Indiana. He returned to Indiana in 2018 after residing in Oakland, California, and New Orleans, Louisiana, since 2006. His passion for historic
SPEAKER BIOS I MORNINGSESSIONSCONT’D
preservation began at age 14 and continued through his BS in History from Butler University and managing a hardware store in Indianapolis. His career includes work in historic preservation and architectural salvage in the San Francisco Bay Area, and he also opened a museum on gas illumination in New Orleans. Nate is a licensed Realtor and Project Management Professional (PMP), integrating his historic preservation expertise into residential and commercial transactions.
NATHANLAW PLANNINGANDPOLICY
Nathan has been with the City of Fort Wayne’s Community Development Division in the Planning & Policy Department since 2019. A Ball State University graduate, he earned a Bachelor’s in Urban Planning and Development in 2015 and a Master’s in Public Administration in 2017. Nathan supports the department with data analysis and mapping and contributes to projects like the All in Allen Comprehensive Plan. As an Allen County native, he is enthusiastic about Fort Wayne’s growth, driven by the collaborative efforts of residents, advocates, community leaders, and reinvestment.
NIKKIQUINTANA FORTWAYNEMETRO
Nikki Quintana is the Executive Director of the Fort Wayne Metropolitan Human Relations Commission, where she leads the staff and oversees operations to combat unlawful discrimination. Under her leadership, the Commission has reduced case age, enhanced the investigative process, and expanded outreach efforts. Dedicated to fostering inclusivity and acceptance in Fort Wayne, Quintana holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Saint Francis and a Juris Doctorate from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law.
OLIVIATORRES AMPLABATELECTRICWORKS
Olivia Torres is an educator and freelance creative based in Fort Wayne, with a background in video production, photography, and design. A Northwestern University graduate, she has worked in creative marketing for a diverse range of clients, including medtech companies, private education, music retailers, and local nonprofits. In 2022, Olivia joined the Fort Wayne Community Schools Amp Lab at Electric Works, where she teaches high school students to refine their creative skills, build impactful brands, and craft compelling stories.
SHEILACURRY-CAMPBELL MIDWESTBUILDINGDECARBONIZATION COALITION
Sheila Curry-Campbell is the Program Director Resource Manager at Pilgrims Progress Community Development Corporation, based in the historic Pilgrim Baptist Church, and serves as the Vice President of the Midwest Building Decarbonization Coalition, representing eight Midwest states. She is deeply involved in community development, focusing on sustainability, workforce development, and environmental justice. Sheila is dedicated to creating opportunities for youth and ensuring the longevity of community organizations. Additionally, she is a Board Member of the City of Fort Wayne Economic Development Commission, a member of the Indiana Interim Study Committee on Courts and the Judiciary, and a former President of the local NAACP and 1st District Allen County Councilwoman.
RÉNABRADLEY DEPARTMENTOFNEIGHBORHOODS
Réna Bradley is one of Fort Wayne’s foremost experts in placemaking, asset-based development, and neighborhood revitalization. She believes that beauty is a call to justice, and, that a community’s residents are its greatest asset. Réna has held various positions in the Community Development Sector and helped to raise over $9,000,000 to improve Fort Wayne neighborhoods by supporting the renovation houses, activation and maintenance of vacant lots, and reduction of crime by over 60% in one SEFW neighborhood. Réna is an Indiana Arts Commissioner, board member of the Fort Wayne Allen County Airport Authority, and a proud alumna of Howard University's College of Engineering, Architecture, and Computer Science.
SCOTTSHALL HOUM.
Scott Shall, RA, is a Professor of Architecture at Lawrence Technological University and the founding principal of houm, an architectural practice focused on innovative design. He also leads the International Design Clinic. Shall has presented his work at major conferences, including the World Congress of Architects and the Valencia Biennial of Research in Architecture, and has published widely with Springer and other notable presses. His exhibitions include the Zeitz Museum for Contemporary AfricanArt and the San Francisco Museum of Art.
SPEAKER BIOS I MORNINGSESSIONSCONT’D
DR.SHERI-ANNMCLEAN
MCLEANCOACHINGANDCONSULTING
Dr. Sheri-Ann McLean is the Founder and CEO of McLean Coaching and Consulting, LLC. With more than 12 years of leadership experience in coaching, training, and community development, she can add value to many individuals and companies. Hailing from the vibrant island of Jamaica, Dr. McLean discovered her passion for helping others reach their full potential at an early age. Beyond her professional pursuits, Dr. McLean finds profound joy in spending quality time with her loved ones, actively engaging in her church and community, traveling, reading, and writing.
TRACYHANLIN STARFINANCIAL
Tracy Hanlin is the Director of Compliance and Community Reinvestment at STAR Financial Bank, a $3 billion community bank headquartered in Fort Wayne, IN, with branches extending from Angola to Indianapolis. A lifelong Fort Wayne resident, Tracy has been with STAR for over 15 years. She is committed to advancing financial literacy, promoting affordable housing, and ensuring equitable access to financial products and services for all residents.
VENDOR BOOTH I VISITLIST
We hope you’ll take some time to visit each of our 2024 Conference Vendors. Take some time to get a dot from each vendor for a chance to win a prize! (Prizes provided while supplies last!)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Names & Contact Info of Vendors I’d like to follow-up with
Photo Description: Light in the Darkness, Clara's Pizza King, Clara's is known for this stained glass window even by people who have never been inside. It's incredibly dramatic against the dark woods of the interior and the sharp angle made it even more so.
Photo Credit: Fairfield Terrace Belmont Neighborhood Resident -Deirde Schwein
JANELL M. LANE
MA, LMHC
PLENARY SPEAKER
CEO
AT COURAGEOUS LIVING, INC.
TITLE: MENTAL HEALTH: ENERGIZING YOU WHILE ENERGIZING OTHERS
PresentationSummary:Janell ‘s plenary address will focus on how community leaders can maintain their energy while supporting others. We'll discuss setting boundaries and managing expectations for a balanced approach to community engagement. This session offers practical insights and connections with fellow leaders to enhance personal well-being and community impact.
SpeakerBio:Janell Lane is an EMDR trained, Traumacentered Licensed Mental Health Counselor, with over 12 years of experience, working in a variety of settings and cultural backgrounds. She is a dynamic and powerful counselor, presenter, speaker, community activist, and trainer with a unique way of relating information. She holds a Bachelor of Art in Psychological Science with minors in Criminal Justice and Social Work, in addition to a Master of Arts Degree in Mental Health Counseling, with an emphasis in providing community-based mental health services, from Ball State University.
Janell is co-leads Courageous Living alongside her husband Aaron Lane. Janell has a deep commitment to addressing systemic issues while continuing to love the direct provision of mental health counseling and social services. She has extensive experience in providing community outreach, diversity training, workshops, mediation, and professional development in a variety of areas, including Restorative Interventions, Trauma-Informed Approaches, etc.
She utilizes time-sensitive methods in her approach, which balances warmth and support, with an honest, direct, and practical style of communication. Janell is committed to building bridges and creating pathways to racial reconciliation by way of creating safety, understanding, and opportunities for healing cross-culturally. reconciliation by way of creating safety, understanding, and opportunities for healing cross-culturally.
with diverse populations through culturally competent consulting, training, and public speaking services.
Notes:
WORKSHOPS I 3:10
PLANNINGWORKSHOP:PADDOCK
RIDETHECHANGE:ENGAGINGGREATERFORT WAYNEWITHCITILINK’SFUTURE
This is an interactive session focused on enhancing public engagement with Citilink, Fort Wayne's public transportation provider. Participants will explore innovative tools for gathering community feedback, discuss the importance of coalition building, and highlight the connection between neighborhood engagement and Citilink's success. Speakers and attendees will learn how to navigate the change process together, striving to improve accessibility and efficiency in Fort Wayne's public transportation system.
COLLABORATIONSESSION: CRAWFORD
CULTURALCOMPETENCYFRAMEWORKAND ENGAGINGDIVERSENEIGHBORS
This session equips residents with the knowledge and skills to effectively interact with neighbors from Burmese and Latino/a backgrounds. Workshop participant will 1) develop an understanding of cultural competence and its importance in fostering inclusive communities, 2) gain insights into the cultural values, practices, and communication styles of Burmese and Latino/a communities, and 3) learn strategies for engaging residents from diverse backgrounds to promote participation and accessibility.
ACTIVATIONWORKSHOP: STADIUM
COMPLETESTREETSANDTRAFFICCALMING
Complete Streets is an approach to planning, designing, building, operating, and maintaining streets that enables safe access for all people who need to use them, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Attendees will learn the Complete Streets approach, gain strategies to evaluate street design and implement traffic calming, identify workshop opportunities to improve streets in their own neighborhood.
CONNECTIONSESSION: HINES
Participants will learn about YFP’s mission to empower individuals facing life-limiting challenges through artistic expression. Then, experience firsthand the impact of this work by taking part in an "Inspiration Expression Activity," where you’ll explore what or who has inspired you and consider who you might inspire in turn. All materials will be provided just bring your creative spark and an open mind!
Casey Claypool John Metzinger
Maddie Miller Betsy Kachmar
Rui Gui
Brian Crowl Janet Altmeyer
SPEAKER BIOS I AFTERNOONWORKSHOPS
BETSYKACHMAR
ACTIVETRANSPORTATIONCOALITION
Betsy Kachmar, a retired public transit manager, is now a dedicated community activist. Since 2018, she has been actively involved with the Active Transportation Coalition, working to connect with neighborhoods and schools. Betsy is passionate about promoting safer mobility for everyone through education and demonstrations.
BRIANCROWL
THEYELLOWFRAMEPROJECT
Brian Crowl is the founder and president of The Yellow Frame Project, a volunteer driven, non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating the creative spark that lives within each of us. After owning and operating a business in Fort Wayne for over 40 years, Brian felt it was time to retire and try to make a difference in the community by spreading the message that creativity knows no boundaries. The Yellow Frame Project was born.
CASEYCLAYPOOL CITILINK
Casey Claypool, Marketing & Development Director at Citilink since October 2022, brings extensive experience from the nonprofit sector, where she tackled community issues and drove root cause change. She recognized that inadequate public transportation in Fort Wayne contributes to food insecurity, homelessness, and limited access to essential services. Believing that public transit is both a critical challenge and a significant opportunity, Casey eagerly joined Citilink to work with a dedicated team focused on advancing the community through improved transportation solutions.
JANETALTMEYER
THEYELLOWFRAMEPROJECT
Janet is a resident of Fort Wayne, IN and matriculated at Vanderbilt University with a bachelors degree in Emotional Handicaps, Learning Disabilities, and Neurological Impairment. She also received her master’s degree in Emotional Handicaps from The University of Saint Francis. Janet’s professional experience consistently emphasized providing safe and supportive spaces for persons living with mental health challenges. For over twenty five years she was a special needs educator and consultant, and most recently she served as the Director of City Ministry at Trinity English Lutheran Church. A passionate nature lover
and lifelong learner, Janet enjoys landscape design, travel with her husband, Joe, and playtime with their daughter, grandson, and Bertie, a supersized standard poodle.
JOHNMETZINGER CITILINK
John Metzinger has been the General Manager/ CEO of Citilink since 2021 and proudly calls himself a “transit nerd.” His passion for public transportation began in childhood when his mom, a school bus driver, gifted him a Disney school bus lunchbox. John earned a Bachelor’s in Graphic Design from Purdue University in Lafayette, where designing transit maps and schedules sparked his interest in public transportation. He later completed an MBA at Indiana Wesleyan University and has held diverse roles across Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan in marketing, business development, operations, planning, and finance. John is committed to using public transportation to drive economic and community development, aiming to overcome stigmas, increase ridership, and enhance community value with Citilink’s board and staff.
MADDIEMILLER THREERIVERSACTIVESTREETS
Maddie Miller is a creative community connector based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, specializing in marketing and project management to foster community engagement. She believes that thoughtful conversations lead to meaningful connections and stronger communities. Passionate about the outdoors, Maddie enjoys biking around town, competing in disc golf tournaments, walking her dog Izzy, and tending her vegetable garden.
RUIGUI
AMANIFAMILYSERVICES
Rui Gui is a social services professional with over eight years of experience working with diverse populations. As an immigrant herself, Rui is profoundly aware of the challenges and joys of growing up in a bicultural world. She has seen firsthand the power of community support in promoting positive outcomes for immigrants and refugees. Rui holds a Bachelor of Arts from Sarah Lawrence College and is pursuing a Master of Social Work from Indiana University. In her free time she enjoys cooking, reading, and hanging out with her dog.
FORT-O I NETWORKING BINGO CARD
We hope you’ll take some time to network and get to know your fellow conference participants - You can write the name of a conference attendee with the following criteria in each box as you get to know your fellow attendees. Yell “FORT-O” when you have 5 in a row for a chance to win prizes!
FFind someone who’s neighborhood is in a different quadrant than yours.
Find someone whose neighborhood has hosted a walk with the Mayor or a Council Member in 2023.
Find your opposite: This is/ isn’t my first conference
Find a neighborhood association that has installed crosswalk murals (ever).
Find your opposite: My neighborhood does/ doesn’t have a historically registered district or site.
Find your opposite: My neighborhood does/ doesn’t have a social media presence
Find your opposite: My neighborhood has/hasn’t conducted a listening tour in the past 12 months.
Find your opposite: My neighborhood does/doesn’t have a school within its boundaries.
Find your opposite: My neighborhood has/ hasn’t won a Neighborhood Improvement Grant (ever).
Find your opposite: My neighborhood has/hasn’t organized a tree or flower planting event in 2023
Find your opposite: My neighborhood does/ doesn’t have a public park.
Find someone who’s association whose name starts with the same first letter as your association.
O R T - O
Find your opposite: My neighborhood association does/ doesn’t have a logo
Find someone who’s neighborhood is in the same quadrant as yours. My neighborhood is registered with the City.
Find someone you didn’t already know who attended a breakout session with you.
Which neighborhood association has traffic box wraps?
If you have a Nextdoor account find someone who doesn’t. If you don’t have one find someone who does.
Who belongs to a neighborhood that has Neighborhood Signs?
Find an association that held a block party in the last year 12 months.
Find your opposite: my neighborhood did/ didn’t hosted a yard of the month competition in 2024
Find your opposite: My neighborhood does/ doesn’t have an approved (City) plan.
Find your opposite: My neighborhood has/ hasn’t completed home safety assessments.
Find a neighborhood that has a walking club or neighborhood watch
FORT-Oprizeswillbeawardedbetween4:30and6:30whilesupplieslast!
AWARD DINNER OVERVIEW
FOOD BY CHAPMAN’S BREWERY I ENTERTAINMENT BY THE MAD SCATTER
4:30-LiveMusic&Food
5:00-Welcome!
5:05-NeighborhoodLeadersoftheYear
Helping Hand: MelvinWoods
Rising Star: Brianna Henriquez-Diaz
Inspiring Leader: LoriStombaugh
5:15-NeighborhoodAssociationoftheYear
Beautification Category: HarrisonHill
5:30-Keynote Presentation: De’AmonHarges
5:45-LiveMusic
6:30-Thankyou&Adjourn
GettoknowsomeofyourfellowConference&AwardDinnerparticipantswith theseice-breakerquestions…
1. What was your biggest takeaway from today?
2. What was your funniest moment?
3. What’s something you learned that surprised you
4. What– if anything– did you learn anything from speakers or attendees that changed your mind or challenged your perspective?
www.projectyellowframe.org www.projectme-fw.org
The Yellow Frame project was inspire by the creative spark that lives within. We believe that each individual has the right to creative expression and for their work to be celebrated.
There is no more powerful affirmation of life than the pure joy in doing a creative activity and in the statement, “I made that.”
Creativity knows no boundaries.
2024 I INSPIREAWARDS
2024NEIGHBORHOODASSOCIATIONOFTHEYEAR
ACTIVATION:
PLACEMAKING, BEAUTIFICATION & PUBLIC SPACE IMPROVEMENTS
Beautiful and well-designed public spaces have the power to lift spirits, increase physical activity, and positively impact behavior by bringing people together and reducing crime. The “Placemaking, Beautification & Public Space Improvement” Award is intended to recognize a neighborhood association that has focused on transforming the physical appearance of homes, infrastructure, and public spaces in their community.
Congratulations to the HarrisonHillNeighborhood! Over the past few years, this neighborhood has focused on improving public spaces including the Triangle Park community space–where they have engaged over 20 neighborhood leaders and
residents to install a gazebo and benches, and plantand maintain flowers. They have also mobilized community members to install pocket-parks, host a plant swap, and participate in educational sessions about native plants. ThankyouHarrisonHillforyoureffortstofostercollaboration,communitypride,andneighborhoodappealinFort Wayne!
2024NEIGHBORHOODLEADERSOFTHEYEAR
HELPING HAND RISING STAR
Description: The “Helping Hand” is awarded to a person who as gone out of their way to help families and residents of their community. They are often seen as “unsung heroes.”
Congratulations to MelvinWoods who is “known for his humility and genuine care for others.” His proactive and selfless actions have greatly contributed to the wellbeing and aesthetics of the neighborhood, making him a deserving candidate for this recognition. In the Oxford Neighborhood, among other things, Melvin has maintained public spaces and community gardens–providing fresh produce to families in the community, and even led community patrols to increase safety. When he’s not busy in the neighborhood, he takes time to mentors young people- teaching them valuable life skills, such as gardening, home maintenance, and giving back.
Thankyou,Melvinforyourservice toFortWayneNeighborhoods!
Young people aren’t just our future, they’re our present! The Rising Star award celebrates the efforts of community members 25 years of age and younger- who are making outstanding contributions to Fort Wayne’s neighborhoods.
Congratulations Brianna Henriquez-Diaz! After moving to Fort Wayne with her family from New York, Brianna hit the round running. Within a few months she had drafted- on her own time- a "Welcome to America" brochure in both Spanish and English to help Spanish-speaking and immigrant families and individuals find the resources they would need to help them navigate the City.
Brianna has also made substantial contributions to several Department of Neighborhoods projects, including: Neighborhood Listening, Being the lead designer of the Inspire Conference, and drafting content for Neighborhood Guides.
Thankyou,Briannaforyour contributionstoourCity!
INSPIRING LEADER
The Inspiring Leader award is given to a neighborhood officer or block captain who has taken the initiative to help around their neighborhood. A leader who is fit for this award demonstrates integrity, grit, and strength in their attitude towards not only their neighborhood but their fellow residents.
Congratulations LoriStombaugh, President of Northside Neighborhood! Lori serves the biggest neighborhood in Fort Wayne, a challenge in its own right, but with her grit and determination she has brought people and support alongside her. Arguably, because of her, Northside is one of the most active and engaging Neighborhood Associations in Fort Wayne. Lori and her team have led and contributed to efforts like adding beautification elements to buffer pedestrians from traffic on a busy road to and bringing the Northside Night Out Food Truck Rally to the neighborhood.
Congratulations&thankyou,Lori foryourleadershipinNorthside!
Sponsor Acknowledgements
Congratulations to the Fairfield Terrance Belmont & Mount Vernon Park Neighborhood Associations for becoming alumni of The City of Fort Wayne’s 2024 FORT-ify Neighborhood Accelerator!
experience for Neighborhood Associations and their leaders.
Participating associations are eligible to receive: new logos, quick action plans, coaching, and funding for projects and a block party.
WILLIAM BRYANT
ROZIER
SHOUT-OUT PROJECT MANAGER
TITLE: THE HARVESTER (THE EAST END) NEIGHBORHOOD
FilmDescription: Shout-Out: Fort Wayne presents...The Harvester (The East End) Neighborhood was directed/edited by John Burkett, and produced/scripted by William Bryant Rozier. The short documentary, a collab with the Harvester Neighborhood Association, highlights the difficulties of reclaiming an identity once it's been forgotten. The neighborhood's identity was once connected to the factories that thrived in the area, and struggled once the industries left. Seven individuals connected to the neighborhood were interviewed, including association members, business owners, and former residents.
PresenterBio:William Bryant Rozier is the project manager for Shout-Out: Fort Wayne. As a multi-disciplinary artist, he has national credits as a writer (Ebony.com, Indian Country Today) and photographer(USA Today, Black Enterprise Magazine).
Rozier owns Scrambled Eggs LLC, an award-winning media production company. He recently completed a series of documentaries for the 2023 Governor's Arts Awards, for the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC). The collaboration was an outgrowth of his time as an arts integration grant panelist for the IAC. He's also directing and producing another series of shorter docs for Traditional Arts Indiana, out of IU Bloomington.
For the Harvester documentary, Rozier served as the producer and scripter for the film.
Notes:
Scrambled eggswasthefirst thing I ever learned how to cook. I’m not thegreatestcook, but what resonated withme themost wasthesenseof independence that I received from cooking for myself. In college, when I created a production companyname for myfilms, I wentwithScrambledEggsbecause Iwasgoing todo for myself. I wasn’t going towait for an opportunity; I was going tobeproactive(not wait bythephone),and “cook” for myself.
CONFERENCE EVALUATION
Thank you for attending our 2024 Conference & for all the ways you contribute to Ft Wayne’s Neighborhoods. Please take 5 minutes to provide us with your feedback by completing the survey linked below.
Anidentical-printed-versionofthis surveycanbefoundonyourtable.
INTRODUCING THE CITY OF FORT WAYNE’S DEPARTMENT OF NEIGHBORHOODS
Neighborhood Planning and Activation neighborhood groups, and community leaders work alongside the City's Community Development Division to create and support strong and vibrant neighborhoods. We currently have a team of five staff members with expertise in community engagement, planning, architecture, and grant writing/support.
DE’AMON HARGES
KEYNOTE SPEAKER FOUNDER AT THE LEARNING TREE
TITLE: SAWUBONA: IDENTIFYING VALUE & CELEBRATING POSSIBILITIES IN NEIGHBORHOODS
SpeakerBio: De’Amon Harges - faculty member of the Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) Institute, Community Organizer, Creator of the Learning Tree, board member of the Grassroots Grantmakers Association Board, and featured in the new documentary “The Antidote: On Kindness in America” - is a frequent speaker on ABCD in secular and religious groups around the world, and is a layperson at Broadway UMC, Indianapolis, IN. De’Amon's role is to listen and discover the gifts, passions and dreams of citizens in his community, and to find ways to utilize them in order to build community, economy, and mutual “delight.”
The bulk of De’Amon’s work is based on the principles and practices of the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) that brings neighbors and institutions together to discover the power of being a good neighbor. De’Amon builds on what is already present and in place in the neighborhood, using those formally undiscovered assets to connect and empower rather than working only from the community’s needs and deficits.
DeAmon now describes his role on this planet as a social banker. He utilizes the intangible currencies that are cultivated and used by human assets and relationships to build a more abundant community.
PresentationSummary:In his keynote address, De'Amon Harges will reflect on the significance of truly seeing and recognizing people in our communities. Inspired by his daughter DeJanae's research and the South African greeting "Sawubona," meaning "I see you," De'Amon will explore the theme of belonging, discussing how being a good neighbor involves recognizing the potential in everyone through asset-based community development. He will share stories about discovering the gifts, stories, and dreams within our communities and emphasize the importance of listening, being present, and celebrating one another to build social bonds and unlock what is possible in our neighborhoods.
Notes:
The Learning Tree’s mission is to invite people to multiply goodness in the world by revealing gifts and talents of neighbors, cultivating opportunities, and creating a culture of abundance for social transformation
2024INSPIRECONFERNCE I CONTACTS
MAKECONNECTIONSTHATLAST!
At the Inspire Conference, you're surrounded by neighborhood leaders, local experts, and future collaborators. Don’t miss out on the chance to grow your network! Take a moment to jot down the names and contact information of the incredible people you meet.
KeepthingsorganizedandeasilyaccessiblebyusingthisContactPagetostoreallthedetails.Buildingmeaningful connectionsstartswitha simplestep—let’smakeitcount!
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