Civic Engagement as a Practice Strategy

The idea of building a profession of engaged leaders for our communities and advocates for the critical issues where we possess unique knowledge is essential to enhance the quality of life and serve our communities. It is also the foundation for a business strategy for our practices. In pursuit of this objective, we need to recognize and explore: why it is crucial; what are the business benefits; how might we leverage the opportunity, and what are the strategies we could pursue? 

Why does it matter? 

Architects possess a unique skill set essential to becoming successful participants and leaders in the community. Among others, these competencies include the critical knowledge areas of: ideation, vision, convening, connecting disparate elements, resource management, creativity, commitment, passion, and the ability to see what is not there yet. Our commitment should be fueled by being dedicated to the principle that we can be positive agents for real and meaningful good in the community.

While these are definite incentives to become engaged, there is often a reluctance to be involved for fear it may foreclose the potential for work in the community. Nothing could be further from the truth. Full disclosure of connections and interests will provide the bridge over that challenge. Honesty and integrity are the foundation on which all relationships are built, and this is especially true where we engage as catalysts for civic initiatives in the community. 

Being engaged is the right thing to do. Being an active participant in the community adds meaning and fulfillment to daily practice. Furthermore, it makes good use of the resources we have to offer both in economic terms and intellectual ones. 

What is the business benefit? 

The business benefits from involvement in community service are both internal and external in their impact on practices. External benefits to community activism are built from the relationships developed in the community and how architects are perceived. We can be seen as leaders, building trust and legitimacy. They demonstrate characters that are fundamental to practice. 

The architect has a free opportunity to illustrate professional capability and how they can be useful resources. Through their community involvement, the opportunity is afforded to associate with quality potential clients who will observe the abilities of architects as creative participants. Through engaging in service motivated projects, a clear commitment to building a better future for the community results in a better environment for practice. It also serves to define the practice, differentiating from others, and attracting both clients and staff. The mere act of participation helps to provide value and meaning to the firm and the lives it touches.

The internal benefits of community service are multiple, as well. By participating as a group, a “sprit de corps” is built, molding teams and character. Also, it provides a level of satisfaction and pride. No matter how mundane the work of the firm may be, the addition of creative participation in community activities enhances the lives of the participants and increases commitment to the firm. Besides, encouraging younger firm members to take on responsibility for these endeavors results in incubating future leaders. 

Where are the opportunities? 

The opportunities for engagement are almost limitless. Some of the major areas include: academic support, community planning and development, human services, and government. These categories of service can be supported through civic organizations, community boards and commissions, service organizations, social clubs, religious groups, and professional societies.

Educational support can be provided through engagement, as a resource for careers, as an educational volunteer, tutor for students, as a mentor and role model, as leaders, and as a link to the business community for future career path development.

Community planning and development is another area where architects and students can play an essential role in making a significant contribution to the quality of the community and its institutions. As a resource for not for profit groups, institutions, and local agencies, we can provide invaluable service in assisting in pursuing development goals for their facilities. By delivering design insight in assessing the program requirements and facility development, the contribution we make positively impacts the future of these organizations. 

The impact architects can have in the area of human services offers an additional opportunity to provide invaluable benefit for communities by providing creative interventions in assisting in finding ways to facilitate or serve their constituents, by serving on boards, by volunteering to help organizations’ programs in doing the work on projects and events, and by supporting organizations and causes through funding activities as sponsors or fundraisers.

Government service is another place where we can and should become engaged in the civic arena. This is an area that should be of critical interest and is often ignored as being perceived to be underappreciated and undervalued. However, this is the area where we can have a significant influence on the quality of the communities. The knowledge base we possess has the potential to provide be a great resource. Through serving on boards and commissions, participating in neighborhood studies and investigations for government initiatives, and even running for legislative office, we have the knowledge, experience, and capability to provide community leadership needed.

How do you do it?

The potential to create and develop programs and projects serving community needs has no limit. The challenge is to determine a plan of action and then to pursue the skills, tactics, and the best use of resources. To begin a pathway of service, you have to marry the interests and passions of the individuals participating with the opportunities available. To initiate a plan for service, we begin by recognizing there are two primary courses of service, each requiring a distinctly different set of qualifications and skills.