Oregon Community Foundation (OCF) was established on the enduring principle that "the most creative solutions arise from groups of private citizens who come together to work in partnership and address their common needs and aspirations" (OCF Grant Guidelines, 1998). We believe fully engaged residents are a building block for healthy communities and a healthy democracy. This report explores examples of effective community engagement in Oregon today. OCF strives to practice the key components identified in this report:
* We connect with people from around Oregon to explore what we can accomplish together by drawing on our strengths rather than focusing on shortfalls.
* We support building relationships across diverse communities as a necessary underpinning for efforts to address opportunity gaps and other mutually identified issues.
* We listen and provide support so engaged community members can succeed.