by James Brooks

In the City of Arnhem, Netherlands, they call it ?Over the Threshold,? a plan to tackle poverty, social isolation, unemployment, addiction and disaffected youth. In New Zealand, the Unlimited Potential Learning Foundation seeks to reduce the digital divide by helping to train people in computer and information technology skills.

Regardless of the name, these international programs are some of the many strategies for building inclusive communities that NLC highlights in its recently released paper entitled, ?Inclusive Communities Around the World.?

To assist U.S. local leaders who wish to apply some global innovations and practical ideas to programs in their hometowns, this paper is a tool for American cities and state municipal leagues to embrace the concept of inclusiveness and creating programs to advance this goal.

The examples look at communities that have taken measures to reduce inequality and to bring opportunity to underserved populations. An inclusive community works together to break down barriers separating different population groups, commits to fairness in housing, jobs and public safety, and demonstrates an appreciation for community diversity through employment and contracting practices.

The paper goes hand in hand with NLC?s Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities, a program to increase citizen participation and engagement, equal opportunity and fairness. To date, 115 cities and towns in 34 states, representing more than 11 million people from across the United States, have joined the partnership.

Details: Download the issue paper "Inclusive Commuities Around the World".  To request an e-mail copy of the paper, send an e-mail to brooks@nlc.org.    
Related links: 
International Programs Page 
Inclusive Communities Partnership