I agree with Matt on all counts! Community Cycles has worked with public (govt funded) housing and private "public" (low-income affordable) housing for years.
It's a win-win for us all - carries out our mission and has positive impact on communities that are often marginalized or intentionally silent (we have a lot of undocumented immigrants in our community).
Of course, I'm not familiar with your area, but our public housing has a community center with programs that target seniors, youth, women, etc. A great plus if you're looking to branch out and focus on any of these subgroups in the neighborhood.
Happy to chat more off-list if you have other more specific questions.
Wanda
PS. Loving the new logo and name!
Wanda Pelegrina Caldas Community Cycles, Boulder's only non-profit bike shop Become a member today. using the secure online donation form. Thanks!!
To: thethinktank@lists.bikecollectives.org From: mfen651@aol.com Date: Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:49:52 -0400 Subject: Re: [TheThinkTank] Partnering with public housing
Micah,
I am a life long cyclist and former public housing assistant executive director, and court liaison. I can assure you that most any public housing agency would welcome a phone call from you to discuss arranging a sit down to create and foster the relationships you seek.
Within the public housing world there are multiple constituents including but not limited to seniors, middle aged, and of course youngsters.
At all levels bike education is going to be an issue that not only needs to be addressed, but creates an opportunity to build a rapport with the different sectors.
Bicycles as they related to health including balance, mobility, and weight loss or maintenance is another that will appeal to many in public housing.
Bicycle maintenance is yet another....three multi-facetted opportunities to come and get to know public housing residents on their "turf".
I wish you well, and welcome your response if I can be of further assistance.
Matt Fenichel
Cycle First Health and Wellness
-----Original Message-----
From: Micah Thompson micah@cyclesforchange.org
To: thethinktank thethinktank@lists.bikecollectives.org
Sent: Wed, Mar 21, 2012 1:23 pm
Subject: [TheThinkTank] Partnering with public housing
Does anyone have any experience working with public housing? We were approached to coordinate programming around increasing ridership among public housing patrons. I appreciate any advice that you may be able to offer.
Sincerely,
Micah Thompson