Citizens meet to focus on the good stuff

An organizational meeting was held Thursday at First Unitarian Church of South Bend of Citizens For Progress (through hope, not fear). This organization was spawned in response to the recent nonstop bashing of the city - some of which is coming from those people who only have a desired political outcome in mind.

After introductions, participants were asked to share what they particularly like about our community. I thought I'd share with you some of what they had to say. These are in no particular order.

Neighborliness - People are interested in talking to each other and helping each other out.

The SOS program - This is now nearly the only resource women who suffer sexual violence have in our area.

Twelve miles of river trails.

Great experiences in the school system (generally).

LaSalle Academy - which was characterized as demanding and rewarding.

The Clay High School fine arts program.

The school age mothers program - This program provides resources for pregnant students and young mothers in order to help them stay in school.

Affordability - You can be fairly poor in our area and still live a decent life.

The Dream Team mentoring program.

St. Joseph County Habitat for Humanity.

The size, beauty and activities available of/in South Bend.

The activist population.

The generosity of citizens.

The level of care and effort by city employees. Most are not particularly well paid, yet do their work with passion and dedication.

The United Religious Community (URC) - A truly ecumenical organization. A model for the country.

The Clay High School food drive.


The group appears to want to stay out of politics, but stress the good news in our area.

I wish them well.

Democracy is not a spectator sport.

Don Wheeler

A note: You can link to their website from here. They are listed under "Activist Links" on the left hand side of the page.