Community Connectors Program

The City of Burien retained Uncommon Bridges to develop a comprehensive strategy to engage residents in city planning projects and to ensure that future city decisions represent Burien residents' values and needs. The city prioritized resident involvement by hiring paid community liaisons who represent the racial and ethnic diversity within the city, ensuring the voices of historically underrepresented populations were not only heard, but that long-lasting relationships with community members and leaders were also established.

We developed and implemented a program to identify communities of color that were historically under-engaged in civic processes, and then hired, trained, and managed six individuals called CommunityConnectors to improve civic engagement across their demographic groups. Before the Community Connectors began, we led leadership development training with the City staff so they were better equipped to engage with the community members. TheCommunity Connectors are one example of our trusted advocate model, wherein we identify, hire, and train community members to support outreach, marketing, and communication, and improve the diverse reach and impact of our project outcomes.

1. Engagement project management
2. Leadership training for city officials
3. Connector recruitment
4. Community Storytelling (video production)
5. Ongoing connector support

Every month, the Connectors meet with City and other civic leaders to learn about programs, policy, and budget updates. These issues range from housing, public safety and affordability. The Community Connectors are involved in various city planning projects, including the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan, the Transportation Plan, the City Master Plan, as well as supporting regular City programming and events. The connection with policymakers allows Connectors to inform their work and communicate more effectively with their communities.

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