Our Neighbors: Nonprofit mixer laying Groundwork

By Chris Treadway
West County Times

Posted: 03/28/2009 02:39:58 PM PDT

Updated: 03/28/2009 05:53:54 PM PDT

NETWORKING mixers, long a staple of the business world, come to the nonprofit realm locally when Groundwork Richmond holds its first event from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Nevin Community Center, 598 Nevin Ave. in Richmond.

Community groups, businesses and individuals are invited to learn about the organization and its plans to marshal resources for a healthier, more livable city.

Groundwork Richmond ultimately will be part of the national Groundwork USA, a network of independent, not-for-profit, environmental organizations.

Each affiliate is locally organized and controlled, but has access to the national group's resources.

Groundwork's goals include:

·  Turning "derelict land and wasted public space" into pocket parks and community gardens.

·  Engaging the public in the remediation and reuse of toxic brownfield sites for community benefit.

·  Assisting neighborhood schools and helping young people develop job and leadership skills.

The mixer is a chance for those with similar goals to share ideas and consider what can be accomplished by working together under the Groundwork banner.

Dinner, child care and translation will be provided at the mixer. To RSVP or get more details, call Opportunity West at 510-236-5812.

For more information, contact:

Nancy Baer, MSW, Manager

Injury Prevention & Physical Activity Promotion Projects

Contra Costa Health Services

597 Center Ave. Suite 115

Martinez, CA 94553

925-313-6837 phone

925-313-6334 fax

visit us on the web at cchealth.org

Agenda for Groundwork Mixer, Tuesday, March 31

5:15

Nancy Baer-very brief remarks about FORG to Groundwork; introduce Amahra

5:18

Amahra-Brief Remarks and share timetable for evening event and introduce Mayor Mcloughlin andTony Norris

5:20-5:40

Mayor McLaughlin andTony Norris

5:40-6:00

Food Break and viewing of Earth Team Video

6:00-6:30

Amahra will introduce speakers (order of speakers)

Doria and Park; Richmond Greenway

Toody; Elm St. Playlot

Shyaam; EcoVillage

Iyalode; Peace Garden

6:30-till closing

remarks and questions from community