Major initiatives slated for 2012 in Rainier Beach, including an update of the neighborhood plan (RB 2014) with the City of Seattle, create the opportunity for dramatically expanding the level of local engagement, particularly by traditionally underserved populations.

Rainier Beach Coalition 2.0 (RBC2.0) will provide the tools, training and support for a core team of at least 20 neighborhood stewards to create and manage an online “information and exchange commons” to improve the timely flow of information and discussion across the neighborhood.

The stewards will both model the effective use of information technologies and improve access to them to strengthen the voice of the underserved, including immigrants, refugees, the elderly and youth. Partners representing these populations will be assisted in establishing at least a minimal online presence.

Project Goals:

This project will increase local engagement, particularly by traditionally underserved populations, particularly African Americans, youth and senior citizens, by:

  1. Providing the tools, training and support for a core team of at least 20 neighborhood stewards as civic journalists to create and manage an online “information and exchange commons” to improve the timely flow of information and discussion across the neighborhood.
  2. Integrating the use of online tools into community action and planning efforts, including the Neighborhood Plan process.
  3. Strengthening RB Coalition online infrastructure through site design enhancements, links to partner sites, enhanced use of Facebook sites and other social media, and assistance for partners with no online presence.
  4. Make hardware available for use to RB residents at meetings and at Cathcart Computer Lab located at Urban Impact (7728 Rainier Avenue South).

If you interested in helping shape and/or participate in this project, email lifteveryvoice@rbcoalition.org or call (206) 755-9578.