Neighborhood Revitalization
An Issue in Bloomington.
Illinois Wesleyan is in close proximity to West Bloomington, an area that currently facing socioeconomic struggles. Working along side several community partners, ARC is making a difference in the lives on West Bloomington residents.
ARC Projects
Cameron's work with West Bloomington
At the WBRP, Cameron worked to develop relationships with Westside businesses by interviewing business owners to discover their needs and the positive aspects of the culturally diverse Westside of Bloomington. He developed a promotional project entitled Westside Wednesdays that is a photographic exhibit of all the businesses he worked with. Cameron also delivered a presentation of his findings to those who are involved in the economic revitalization of the Westside, including a number of business owners and city officials.
Lizzie's LINC Project
When funding was eliminated for LINC Basketball, Lizzie worked with Western Avenue to find funding sources for the LINC Basketball Facilities by establishing new partnerships with community leaders to create better opportunities for participants.
Celeste and Mid-Central
Celeste assisted in the coordination of NeighborWorks Week, a week dedicated to the revitalization of homes in the community. In addition to NeighborWorks, Celeste conducted a Community Needs Assessment that gauged the current needs of Mid Central's target area, West Bloomington. She will be continuing to work with mid central in the fall 2012 with their pilot project, Going Green, sponsored by NeighborWorks.
Academics
395 action research seminar (Cross-listed as sociology 395): This seminar bridges theory and applied research in community action. The course introduces the student as scholar-citizen to the multiple ways of seeking information on communities and examining community issues. On teams with community partners and faculty, students develop action plans and implement research projects.Community Partners
West Bloomington Revitalization Project
Western Avenue Community Center
Volunteer
Alternative Fall Break
New in 2012, the Action Research Center and Student Volunteer Resource Center will be sponsoring an "Alternative Fall Break" program. A popular program in the spring, sending 30 students to a struggling area of the country, is going local this fall. Students will be introduced to the issues of West Bloomington and will spend three days volunteering and living in the community.
Contact Elyse Nelson-Winger if interested at chaplain@iwu.edu
Check out the Student Volunteer Resource Center for more opportunities!
Internships
See the IWU Career Center for internships!
Have an Idea?
Email ARC and let us know what you're thinking!! arc@iwu.edu
