good news neighborhoods

Last April, I started a LISC (Local Initiative Support Corporation) AmeriCorps term with the City of Kalamazoo’s Office of Community Planning and Economic Development, working in the planning division. LISC AmeriCorps is a 10-month, full-time service opportunity for people looking to get on the ground in their communities. LISC places service members at non-profits and local governments to build the capacity of their programs, while also giving members the opportunity to gain valuable experience.

The City’s engagement season kicks off in the Spring, so I was quickly deployed on the ground to connect with residents. Whether it be doorknocking in the Oakwood neighborhood or tabling in Bronson Park, I was speaking with residents all over our community. In 2022, the planning division hosted over 100 events, providing plenty of opportunities to connect with residents. At some of our recurring events I saw familiar faces time after time. For example, I formed a friendship with a resident named Harlan who always came to Lunchtime Live in Bronson Park and our community table at the library. He is a sweet man. He even sent me a Christmas card!

This position gave me the opportunity to not only connect with individuals like Harlan, but also organizations and institutions. In 2022, the City launched UniZooCity, a program that focuses on engaging college students and welcoming them to Kalamazoo through volunteer opportunities across the community. As a part of this programming, we provided opportunities for students to connect with community leaders at local non-profits as well as City staff. We worked with the Western Michigan University’s Student Association (WSA) and Greek Council to organize a walkability audit of W. Michigan Avenue and Howard Street, where we assessed the conditions of sidewalks and street crossings. This was a helpful activity for students since many students live off campus and walk to and from campus every day. It was inspiring to see students advocating for the changes they want to see in their neighborhood.

In addition to collaborating with colleges, I also collaborated with neighborhood associations and local youth groups. For example, I applied and was awarded a small grant through LISC to bring servicelearning opportunities to K-8 students at Eastside Youth Strong. I led discussions with youth to unpack their assumptions of homelessness in Kalamazoo and brought in experts to provide writing education on how to write positive affirmations to people. These uplifting words were written on cards and packed into care packages with winter clothes, food, water, and hygiene products. The youth at Eastside Youth Strong were able to pack 40 packages that were delivered to Ministry with Community to help serve their clients.

I’ve enjoyed the work I’ve accomplished and the relationships I’ve built over the past 10 months. Even though my term has come to an end, this only means that someone new can fill the position. I encourage you to take the step and serve your community through AmeriCorps.

Zach DuMont