Building Skilled Communities

What makes your neighborhood special? Every neighborhood has unique projects, programs, and initiatives that make them shine, and it’s the volunteers that make them happen. That’s why we developed Building Skilled Communities, a series of presentations and conversations led by neighbors and professionals that highlight neighborhood achievements and provide opportunities for neighbors to learn valuable community skills from their fellow volunteers, peer-to-peer. Come meet your fellow volunteers, learn what other neighborhoods are up to, and expand your own toolkit!

Do you have a project that you’re proud of? Share what makes you and your neighborhood shine by volunteering as a BSC presenter! Our staff can help you develop a short presentation or conversation to share your experience, insight, and skills with your fellow volunteers and inspire them to start new projects in their own communities. Send us an email at admin@nwnw.org to learn more!

Building Skilled Communities Presenter FAQ

What does being a BSC presenter involve?
BSC presenters design and present a short presentation on the neighborhood topic of their choice. The presentation typically runs from 20 to 30 minutes, and is followed by a conversation in which attendees can ask questions.

Who can be a BSC presenter?
Anyone who is involved in a neighborhood association project can be a BSC presenter. You are more than welcome to co-present with others!

What support will I receive?
Our staff is here to help! Staff will meet with you to discuss your project and help you design your presentation. They will also schedule and advertise the event, as well as run set up and tech. We can be as hands-on or hands-off as you want—it’s totally up to you!  

Who can attend BSC events?
Anyone who is interested in building their skills is welcome to attend an event, whether they live in our neighborhoods, the greater Portland area, or beyond! 

Will I be compensated for being a presenter?
Maybe. Depending on the nature of the class, NWNW may engage paid professional presenters (A CPA teaching an accounting class, for example). Sadly, Neighbors West-Northwest cannot currently compensate our volunteer presenters. We are grateful to our presenters for donating their time, experiences, and skills to educating their community and sharing what makes their neighborhood special.