Quote:
Originally Posted by Barefoot
I've been reading this thread with a great deal of interest. i applaud Kitty's enthusiasm and desire to get involved and improve the quality of life for people living in Wildwood. I also agree with some of Grannynance' comments.
I have no experience at all with Wildwood, but I do have a lot of experience with people and town councils and Mayors of small towns. And the one thing I know is that no Locals anywhere ever want "people from away" telling them how to run their lives. I think this is one of GrannyNance' areas of discomfort.
My thought is that you have to crawl before you can walk, and then run. People "from away" have to be careful to start small, get to know people and personalities, prove their good intentions by helping solve current problems, gain credibility by working in the trenches, etc., before they start proposing managing a process to merge The Villages and Wildwood.
I think getting involved with the Foodbanks in surrounding communities is a great first step to getting to know local people and building relationships that will help effect change without seeming presumptuous.
And I apologize if I've misconstrued anyone's feelings or comments. I have nothing but admiration for Kitty and her passionate zest to get involved and make a difference.
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Well said, barefoot.
I think it's more respectful of the community to focus on a collaboration to improve economics than to primarily approach them with pity as saviors to the helpless. I'm NOT saying helping the down and out is a bad thing.
I am saying that if someone wanted to help me, I'd gain more self-respect if they said, "You have strengths. Is there a way I can assist you in gaining more independence." vs "You are obviously in need. Let me give you a donation."