Voicing Your Values and Beliefs

A group of local organizations are building upon data collected through the 500,000 Voices survey last year. In particular, the partners were motivated by the fact that 75% of respondents desired working together to address important issues, while only 47% felt it was likely to happen in southwest Washington.

This statistic demonstrates that our region needs a home for constructive dialogue and community engagement. This vision led to the creation of the 500,000 Voices Open Forums and the Initiative for Public Deliberation at Washington State University Vancouver. These Open Forums aim to create community-driven solutions to local issues by bringing citizens together for moderated, small-group discussions.

The first six forums will focus on challenges and opportunities related to affordable housing in our community, but don’t require participants to have in-depth knowledge of the subject. All that you need is an interest in creating solutions and improving our community through deliberative dialogue. Diverse perspectives are needed, so please add your voice by attending one of the following forums.